'WHAT LEGACY WILL I LEAVE?' THE QUIET REVOLUTION OF AI IN CJI CHANDRACHUD'S JUDICIAL METAMORPHOSIS

"What legacy will I leave?" The imagery that CJI DYC put it in our minds can result in a reflection, probably the only time when a man at the pinnacle of our judicial system will ever be seen introspecting.

- TUSHAR V SHARMA

"What legacy will I leave?" The imagery that CJI DYC put in our minds can result in a reflection, probably the only time when a man at the pinnacle of our judicial system will ever be seen introspecting. For years, courts have been synonymous with delays, echoing the famous line "Tareekh pe tareekh, tareekh pe tareekh, milti rahi hai, lekin insaaf nahin mila, milta hai toh sirf tareekh..." DYC was looking to break the chain by embracing technology and artificial intelligence that could explore or revolutionize how the judiciary functions. His time in office has been highlighted by major projects to digitize court procedures, an issue close to his heart, reflecting his belief that 'the era of maintaining the status quo is behind us; we need evolution' within our profession.

In recent years, DYC has been one of the most transformational arriving at the helm of the judiciary in India. His appointment comes at a crucial time as his leadership coincided with the apex court grappling over rising case pendency, delayed justice and the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Recognizing this urgent need for change, the DYC has pivoted technology to be a linchpin of his judicial reforms. Several initiatives have been introduced to update or modernize the court operations. One of the key AI initiative use cases has been in categorizing cases to streamline or improve case management and clear backlogs. It has to be dealt with effectively and expeditiously by a system, so that the resources of those holding power or authority are efficiently utilized for delivery of speedy justice.