Artificial Intelligence In The Indian Criminal Justice System: A Step Towards Smart Justice Or A Threat To Fair Trial?
- IJLLR Journal
- 9 hours ago
- 1 min read
Kumar Kartikeya, LLM, Research Scholar, Department of Law, NIMS University
Dr. (Prof.) Falak Bashir, PhD, NIMS University
ABSTRACT
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the Indian criminal justice system represents a transformative shift towards data-driven governance. While AI offers significant potential to address systemic inefficiencies such as judicial delays, case backlog, and limited access to justice, its application raises serious constitutional, ethical, and legal concerns. This paper critically examines whether AI serves as a tool for “smart justice” or poses a threat to the fundamental principles of fair trial and due process.
The study explores global practices and the evolving Indian approach to AI in criminal justice, highlighting both opportunities and risks. Emphasis is placed on issues such as algorithmic bias, lack of transparency, accountability deficits, and the potential violation of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution of India. The paper argues that while AI can enhance efficiency and consistency in judicial processes, it must not undermine judicial discretion, human empathy, and constitutional safeguards.
Ultimately, the research concludes that AI should function as an assistive mechanism rather than a decision-making authority. A robust regulatory framework, ethical guidelines, and institutional oversight are essential to ensure that the integration of AI strengthens rather than weakens the justice delivery system.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Criminal Justice System, Fair Trial, Algorithmic Bias, Judicial Discretion, Constitutional Rights, Article 21, Predictive Policing, Legal Technology.
