Kumarakom, Kerala: Supreme Court Judge Justice Surya Kant recently highlighted the critical need for a balanced approach between the opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart transportation technologies, and the ethical challenges they pose. His remarks came during the Commonwealth Legal Education Association’s International Conference on “Law and Technology: Sustainable Transport, Tourism, and Technological Innovations” held in Kumarakom, Kerala.
Justice Kant, serving as the Chief Patron of the Commonwealth Legal Education Association, spoke on the transformative potential of AI and automated vehicles in revolutionising public transportation. However, he also underscored the ethical and regulatory issues these technologies raise, calling for careful deliberation to ensure their safe and equitable implementation.
“While the advent of Artificial Intelligence and smart transportation technologies offers tremendous opportunities, they also present significant ethical dilemmas that must be addressed,” Justice Kant remarked.
He further elaborated on the role of AI in traffic management and transportation, advocating for the establishment of robust regulatory frameworks that address sustainability and combat the threats of cyber attacks and privacy breaches.
“Navigating the complexities of AI in areas such as traffic management requires us to approach with both skill and foresight. The rise of these technologies demands a delicate balance—a regulatory framework strong enough to protect against privacy violations and cyber security threats, yet flexible enough to encourage innovation,” he added.
Justice Kant also touched upon the principle of ‘intergenerational equity,’ a concept frequently invoked by the Supreme Court to ensure that current policies do not jeopardise the needs of future generations. He emphasised that sustainable development should remain at the forefront of legal and technological advancements.
“The Supreme Court has consistently upheld environmental protection and sustainable development, often invoking the principle of intergenerational equity to ensure our actions today do not compromise future generations’ ability to meet their needs,” he stated.
In addressing the justice system, Justice Kant highlighted the vital role technology plays in enhancing court processes. He noted that digital courtrooms, e-filing systems, and AI-driven research tools are essential in making justice more efficient and accessible, especially through virtual hearings, which have significantly improved access to justice for those unable to attend court physically due to distance or other challenges.
In conclusion, Justice Kant used the metaphor of a river carving its path through persistence and purpose to illustrate the ongoing development of law and technology. He emphasised the necessity of shaping the future with transformative laws and innovative technology.
“Just as a river carves its path through snow with persistence and purpose, we too must shape our future through transformative laws and innovative technology,” he concluded.
The conference also featured addresses from Justice BR Gavai, who delivered the inaugural speech, and Chief Justice of Seychelles Rony Govinden, who was the Guest of Honour. Other notable speakers included Justice AM Muhammed Mustaque, Acting Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court, Attorney General for India R Venkataramani, and Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta. The event also observed a moment of silence for the victims of the recent Wayanad landslide tragedy.
