Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath said artificial intelligence will change how we work and live, urging judges and lawyers to uphold fairness and compassion as technology tests the legal system. He delivered these remarks during the AK Sen Memorial Lecture at the India International Centre in New Delhi.
Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath emphasized the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on work and life, highlighting the need for the legal system to adapt while maintaining fairness and compassion.
He delivered these remarks during the AK Sen Memorial Lecture at the India International Centre in New Delhi.
He stated,
“As we look ahead, we will face new questions that touch every part of the legal system, data protection and dignity, responsible speech in the digital sphere, markets that reward enterprise without losing fairness, environmental choices that balance growth with care for the planet, and new technologies, especially artificial intelligence, that will change how we work and live,”
Justice Nath pointed out that the law is not merely a collection of regulations but also a means of treating individuals, urging institutions to remember the moral foundation of legal systems.
He stated,
“The law is a set of rules, yes, but it is also a way of treating people. It is a promise that power will answer to reason, and that reason will remain open to evidence. It is a promise that even when we act with speed, we will not forget fairness, and even when we act with firmness, we will not forget compassion.”
He asserted that the law can remain resilient amidst technological and social changes if legal professionals adhere to fundamental practices.
“If we hold on to our steady habits and remember that the law exists to serve people, the path will be clearer.”
Addressing young lawyers and law students, Justice Nath remarked that success in the legal profession is built on consistent acts of discipline and humility.
“Do the simple things well. Read the papers carefully. Be on time. Treat everyone in the courtroom with respect. And keep your language straight. When you lose, learn why. When you win, thank the people who helped you. Find mentors who correct you.”
He explained that these small but significant habits over time shape a lawyer’s reputation and character,
“These small habits, repeated over years, become character. And character is what persuades courts and clients to trust you with difficult work.”
Justice Nath also discussed the qualities expected of judges, emphasizing that clarity and restraint reflect respect for the institution and the public,
“He (AK Sen) dealt with disagreement without raising his voice. He was willing to hear every concern, but he did not let debate become delay. He believed that clarity is a form of respect – to the House, to the courts, and to the public. We on the Bench should hold ourselves to the same measure: clear reasons, a steady tone, and decisions that ordinary people can read and follow.”
He highlighted that the Constitution addresses everyone and that judgments should mirror this inclusivity.
He remarked,
“The Constitution speaks to everyone, our judgments should do the same,”
Justice Nath noted that true leadership in law develops gradually through consistent efforts and attention to detail, rather than through high-profile cases or accolades.
“Leadership in law is often judged by what is done on the biggest stage. But the law is built, day by day, on small, careful acts. There is dignity in small things filing a brief punctually, treating a court officer with respect, giving credit to a junior, citing a precedent accurately, acknowledging an error promptly.”
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He concluded by stressing that trust, cultivated through such habits, fosters responsibility and influence,
“Use your influence to build institutions, not just reputations. Use your skill to sharpen justice, not just arguments. Use your learning to guide the next generation, not just to impress your own.”
Justice Nath wrapped up by reminding the audience that the essence of law is rooted in its humanity,
“If we keep these habits alive, we will also keep alive the wider spirit of the law, its humanity.”
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