Acting Chief Justice Malla: AI Can Aid Justice, Not Replace It

Kathmandu. Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla has stated that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be an effective tool for ensuring justice delivery and access to justice, it cannot be a substitute for justice.

Speaking at a program organized by young legal practitioners, she emphasized the need not to forget the human senses and conscience of justice while using technology. Acting Chief Justice Malla opined that although AI does not tire the system and increases efficiency, it must be kept within the bounds of human control and conscience. Sharing her personal experience, the Acting Chief Justice said that AI can provide significant assistance in legal research, finding precedents, and drafting judgments by creating a framework.

Citing the example of an AI system called 'Victor' being used in Brazil's judiciary, she stated that technology can be used to its fullest potential in Nepal to eliminate duplication in case registration and make judicial administration efficient. She also mentioned the need to be aware of the risks of technology along with its benefits. She specifically pointed out the need to be serious about issues such as the 'digital divide', potential bias in algorithms, the right to privacy, and accountability.

Referring to the guidelines issued by UNESCO and India for the use of AI, she stressed that Nepal should also embrace a 'human-centric approach', transparency, and accountability.

Expressing happiness that the new generation of legal practitioners are tech-savvy, she said that the support of the youth is necessary to make the judiciary tech-friendly and innovative. She believes that technology can prove to be a milestone for speedy justice and access, and that it will redefine the narrative of justice in a new way. She mentioned that technology will increase efficiency to address public complaints of delayed justice and that it will strengthen the entire justice system.