ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE INDIAN JUDICIARY: A SYSTEMATIC ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES IN ADDRESSING CASE BACKLOGS

Abstract

This paper examines the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing the critical issue of case backlogs plaguing the Indian judiciary. With over 40 million pending cases, Indian courts face a crisis of delayed justice that undermines the rule of law and public trust in the legal system. This research analyzes how AI technologies could be leveraged to streamline court processes, enhance judicial productivity, and ultimately reduce case pendency. Drawing on examples of AI implementation in judiciaries worldwide, the paper explores applications in case management, legal research, document review, and decision support. While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI, the analysis also grapples with significant challenges around data quality, algorithmic bias, privacy concerns, and the need to preserve human judgment in judicial decision-making. The paper argues that a carefully implemented AI strategy, combined with institutional reforms, could significantly improve efficiency in the Indian courts. However, any technological solutions must be tailored to the unique context of the Indian legal system and subject to appropriate governance frameworks. The research concludes with recommendations for a phased adoption of AI in the judiciary, emphasizing the need for further empirical study on the impacts of AI on judicial processes and outcomes.