Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh High Court Chief Justice Ravi Malimath highlighted the importance of judges’ intelligence in the judiciary, asserting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) does not impact judicial decisions. Speaking at the 10th Biennial Madhya Pradesh State Judicial Officers Conference, he emphasized that while AI and other technologies aid in expediting work, it is the knowledge and intelligence of judicial officers that shape judgments.
According to Justice Malimath, AI has significantly reduced manual work in certain aspects of the judicial system. For instance, calculation of court fees is now automated, eliminating the need for separate calculations and minimizing external interference. Nonetheless, he emphasized that the primary reliance of the judiciary remains on judges’ intellectual abilities.
During the conference, Justice Malimath shared an incident involving a judicial officer whose performance had declined. Observing this, he instructed the High Court registrar to investigate the matter. After initial reluctance, the registrar general complied, and it was discovered that the officer’s work had been affected by personal family issues. The judicial officer assured the Chief Justice that the issues would be resolved within a few months. As the officer’s performance improved, Justice Malimath upgraded his rating from grade C to A in the Annual Confidential Reports.
Highlighting the role of AI tools in reducing manual work, Justice Malimath cautioned that these technologies must be properly utilized to benefit the judicial system. He stressed that if AI is not adequately employed, the punishment for theft cases, regardless of the scale, would remain the same. Therefore, it is crucial to harness all available tools and technologies in the interest of the judicial system.
Justice Malimath’s remarks suggest that while AI and technological advancements are valuable in expediting certain aspects of the judiciary’s work, the intelligence and expertise of judges remain paramount in upholding justice. By effectively integrating AI and human intelligence, the judiciary can benefit from increased efficiency and improved decision-making processes.
As the judiciary continues to navigate the digital era, striking a balance between AI and human intellect is crucial. The reliance on judges’ intelligence ensures the fair and unbiased dispensation of justice, while AI tools streamline manual tasks and enhance overall efficiency. The judiciary’s commitment to embracing new technologies while upholding the core values of the legal system is essential for a progressive and effective justice system in Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
