Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud highlighted the need for a balance between technological innovation and judicial integrity to ensure fair trials, addressing the roles of AI, cybersecurity risks, and social justice in law.
Mumbai: While virtual courts have improved accessibility, they have also raised concerns about fair trials, and there must be a balance between innovation and judicial integrity, former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said on Thursday.
Speaking at a conference organized by Welingkar Institute of Management, he emphasized that the legal framework must evolve with digital advancements to ensure fair, flexible, and future-ready governance.
Highlighting the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the legal system, Chandrachud stated, “Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming case management, making legal processes faster and more efficient.” However, he cautioned against over-reliance on technology, citing a recent incident where
“an attorney faced sanction for using AI-generated fake case citations. This proves that while machines can assist, they cannot replace human judgment.”
Discussing cybersecurity threats, he warned that the digital revolution has introduced new risks that threaten society. “Our own creation threatens our future,” he remarked.
He further described cyber fraud as a well-organized industry, equipped with the “best tools of technology” and a “lethal combination of human trafficking, torture, and exploitation.”
On the emerging risks of quantum computing, he explained,
“Quantum computing possesses previously unheard-of cyber dangers because it has the ability to crack existing encryption techniques. This technology has the potential to redefine digital privacy, jeopardize critical government data, and upend international financial institutions without guardrails.”
Chandrachud stressed that without a proactive and ethical legal framework, the world could face a “technological arms race, where a small number of countries and businesses control global power.”
He also pointed out that the rise of digital currency and blockchain technology has added complexity to the legal landscape.
“The challenge is clear. We need a smart legal framework that protects users without killing innovation. This requires enacting clear regulations for AI accountability and strengthening cybersecurity laws to combat digital fraud.”
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Speaking on social justice, he underlined the importance of affirmative action policies in promoting diversity and addressing historical injustices.
“Marginalized groups such as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, women, and minorities face structural barriers that limit access to education, employment, and leadership roles. For true progress, we must ensure that everyone has the support and access needed to compete on a level playing field.”
Chandrachud called for a closer collaboration between education and industry, stating that students must be equipped with real-world skills before they enter the workforce.
He concluded by addressing global challenges, saying,
“As a global community, we survive on hope amidst cynicism, on peace amidst zones of conflict, and on faith in the survival of our planet amidst concerns over climate change. We must continue our efforts to harness technology while safeguarding against cybersecurity threats.”
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