Manipur High Court utilized ChatGPT, an AI language model, for conducting legal research to assist in passing a judicial order. This marks a significant development in the integration of AI technology in the legal field. The court used ChatGPT to gather relevant case law and legal principles efficiently. This demonstrates the potential of AI to enhance judicial decision-making processes.
The Manipur High Court disclosed its utilization of ChatGPT for research purposes in a service-related issue. Justice A Guneshwar Sharma mentioned employing the artificial intelligence (AI) tool to assist in overturning the removal from service of a Village Defence Force (VDF) personnel.
Initially, the Court inquired from the government counsel about the circumstances under which authorities could order such disengagement. Upon receiving no response, the judge turned to Google and ChatGPT to seek the necessary information.
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The judge noted in the order,
“In light of these conditions, the court found it necessary to conduct additional research utilizing Google and ChatGPT 3.5, gathering pertinent information,”
The Manipur government established the Village Defense Force (VDF) to enhance local security and assist the police in maintaining law and order, particularly in rural areas. The VDF consists of volunteers from local communities who are trained and equipped to guard villages against various threats, including insurgent activities and ethnic violence.
The court observed that after successfully completing training and passing the required assessments, the candidates are formally appointed as VDF members and are then assigned duties alongside the police force.
Furthermore, the court noted that the Manipur Home Department issued an Office Memorandum (OM) that outlined the service conditions for VDF personnel. Importantly, this OM mandated that a show cause notice be issued to a VDF member to explain any charges levelled against them before any disciplinary action could be taken.
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The Court ultimately determined that the disengagement order, a violation of the principles of natural justice.
Consequently, the Court ordered the immediate reinstatement of the petitioner.
The petitioner represented by Advocate Ajmal Hussain, while the State represented by Government Advocate Shyam Sharma.
Read Judgment: [Md Zakir Hussain v. State of Manipur].