Justice Surya Kant, in his inaugural address at the Conclave on Technology and Judicial Education, underscored that digital transformation of the judiciary is no longer optional but a “practical necessity” to ensure meaningful access to justice and sustain the rule of law.
Speaking at the event marking the declaration of Sikkim as a paperless judiciary, Justice Kant highlighted how technology is dismantling geographical and infrastructural barriers that historically impeded access to courts, particularly in remote regions. He noted that digital networks are increasingly enabling litigants to engage with the justice system without the burden of physical travel, thereby redefining access in a geographically diverse country like India.
Emphasising India’s “digital renaissance” in the legal ecosystem, Justice Kant referred to initiatives such as the e-Courts project and the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG), which have enhanced transparency, accessibility, and efficiency. He observed that modern tools now allow litigants to track case progress, access orders, and participate in proceedings virtually reshaping traditional courtroom dynamics and promoting accountability.
The Judge also highlighted the growing integration of artificial intelligence within the judiciary, pointing to tools like SUVAS and SUPACE as “force multipliers” that assist in translation, research, and case management. He stressed that such technologies enable judges to focus on substantive legal issues by reducing routine administrative burdens.
Looking ahead, Justice Kant called for greater standardisation of digital systems across High Courts through the adoption of the Case Information System (CIS), alongside strengthening e-Seva Kendras to bridge the digital divide and ensure inclusivity. He noted that while India has already established a robust digital infrastructure, the next phase must focus on enhancing usability and citizen-centric access.
Importantly, he advocated for the calibrated use of artificial intelligence at the trial court level, particularly in areas such as verification processes and identifying patterns in bail and sentencing, to improve consistency and reduce delays. However, he cautioned that technological adoption must be accompanied by safeguards to prevent bias and ensure fairness.
Justice Kant further stressed the need for a “pedagogical pivot” in judicial education, urging institutions to go beyond basic digital literacy and equip judges with a deeper understanding of algorithmic systems. He emphasised that the integration of technology must remain anchored in constitutional values, with the judiciary retaining control over the tools it adopts.
Concluding his address, Justice Kant congratulated the Sikkim High Court for becoming a fully paperless institution, calling it a “tectonic step” in India’s judicial transformation. He expressed hope that the conclave would chart a forward-looking roadmap to ensure that justice remains accessible, transparent, and resilient in the digital age.