Legal education meets AI

As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, India’s leading law schools are introducing specialised courses and research initiatives, often in collaboration with technical institutions. But the need for comprehensive regulations persists

- Pritha Roy Choudhury

India's legal academia is responding to the artificial intelligence revolution through pioneering programmes and research initiatives at its premier law schools. However, the field remains nascent, highlighting the urgent need for a robust regulatory framework and academic infrastructure.

"We must frame regulations carefully, recognising both the potential and the risks of AI," said Arul George Scaria, professor of law at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru. "The stakes are high, and thoughtful regulation is imperative to ensure AI serves societal needs without causing harm."

Programmes on AI and law

The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru has integrated AI into its LLM curriculum through a law and technology concentration. Scaria emphasises that their programme covers intellectual property rights, liability frameworks, and comparative studies of global regulations like the European Union's AI Act.

"We prepare students to critically evaluate and contribute to the development of AI laws, equipping them to work in academia, think tanks, law firms, and corporate roles," he explained.

Similarly, in Kolkata, the National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS) offers courses on AI and law interfaces, alongside a specialised master's programme in data science and law. These initiatives reflect an interdisciplinary approach, blending legal, ethical, and technological perspectives.