Justice Surya Kant: Emphasizing Technology’s Role in Human Justice

KANDY, SRI LANKA – Justice Surya Kant, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, stated that although technology is transforming the legal landscape, the essence of justice remains human. Speaking during the 29th National Law Conference in Kandy, he asserted that innovations like AI and digital systems support the judiciary, but they cannot substitute for the human conscience and empathy essential in fair trials.

“Technology is a formidable ally, yet justice is inherently a human endeavor,” Justice Kant remarked. He pointed out that court offices, once overflowing with paper documents, now utilize dashboards for real-time tracking of case filings, pending matters, and court schedules.

The judge noted that while AI can aid in legal research, drafting documents, or identifying inconsistencies, it lacks the ability to interpret the subtle emotional signals from witnesses, the ethical implications of decisions, or the respect due to litigants. “Let technology steer the process, but let humans oversee it,” he advised, warning against excessive reliance on algorithms for judgment.

Justice Kant characterized the ongoing legal evolution as extensive and far-reaching, highlighting that systems for case management, e-filing, and virtual hearings are broadening access to justice beyond conventional geographical boundaries. In India, online dispute resolution and digital registers have already made the judicial process more efficient and transparent.

For law students and emerging professionals, he noted, technology is an invaluable educational resource. It facilitates deeper engagement with case law, accelerates research processes, and increases awareness of procedural guidelines. Citizens also benefit from online grievance platforms, virtual Lok Adalats, and digital legal assistance, making justice more reachable than ever.

However, he urged caution. Data can inform but should not dictate legal decisions. Legal practitioners must ensure that technology promotes transparency, fairness, and accountability. Justice Kant warned about risks such as AI inaccuracies, data biases, and confidentiality challenges, reiterating the necessity of human oversight.

Stressing inclusivity, he advocated for democratizing legal technology, ensuring that it is not limited to a select few. He recommended that law schools and internships include training on legal informatics, AI ethics, data science, and computational law to adequately prepare future experts.

Justice Surya Kant wrapped up with a call for balance: the integration of technology should bolster justice without undermining fundamental values of fairness, due process, and human dignity. “We can direct technology to bolster, rather than replace, justice,” he concluded.

This outlook promotes a judicial system that is more transparent, accessible, and efficient, while still being anchored in human wisdom, compassion, and ethical standards.