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Delhi has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its courtrooms by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. The Delhi Courts have inaugurated their first 'Pilot Hybrid Court,' which features a ‘Speech to Text’ facility. This new technology allows AI to take dictation and convert spoken words into text in real time while recording evidence. This innovative facility is expected to save considerable time and enhance the working efficiency of judges and court staff, particularly stenographers. By automating the process of transcription, the courts can expedite proceedings and reduce the burden on human resources.
Inauguration and Launch of Digital Tools
The inauguration of the AI-equipped pilot hybrid courtroom took place at the Tis Hazari Court with Acting Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, Justice Manmohan leading the event. Alongside the speech-to-text facility, a digital court app was also launched which will enable judicial officers to access all e-filed cases conveniently.
Embracing Technology for a Better Legal System
Justice Manmohan emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to enhance the legal system and minimize delays in justice delivery. He highlighted that the integration of advanced technology is crucial for ensuring that justice is served promptly and efficiently.
Potential Game-Changer
The speech-to-text facility for evidence recording has been described by Justice Manmohan as a powerful tool with the potential to revolutionize the judicial process. He believes that adopting such technology is essential for the legal system to function effectively and to address the issue of delayed justice.
Aiming for a More Efficient Justice System
Justice Manmohan's remarks highlighted the need to harness technology to improve the legal system. He stated that bringing in good technology is the key to ensuring that the justice system works properly by helping to bring accused individuals to justice more swiftly and effectively. By introducing AI into the courtroom, Delhi is setting a precedent for other courts to follow. The speech-to-text facility is not just a technological advancement but a significant step towards a more efficient and just legal system.
Advanced Technologies Transforming Courtrooms: Delhi's New Speech-to-Text Facility
Delhi's courtrooms are embracing cutting-edge technology with the introduction of a speech-to-text facility designed for recording evidence. This system incorporates advanced technologies such as 'Automatic Speech Recognition' (ASR) and 'Large Language Models' (LLMs), which efficiently convert spoken words into written text displayed on a screen.
Digital Court Application for Judicial Officers
In addition to the speech-to-text feature, the 'Digital Court Application' has been developed for judicial officers. This desktop application offers a variety of functions including a document upload feature that ensures all physical documents presented in court are also available in digital form within the Case Information System (CIS). This integration supports the goal of having a comprehensive digital record of all court proceedings.
Exemplifying Effective Use of AI
Justice Manmohan highlighted that the speech-to-text facility is equipped with diverse tools that showcase the appropriate application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in the judicial system. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote paperless courts by aiming to streamline judicial processes and reduce reliance on physical documents.
Acknowledging the IT Committee's Efforts
Justice Manmohan praised the IT Committee led by Justice Rajiv Shakdhar for their diligent work in implementing these technological advancements. He acknowledged the collective efforts of everyone involved in making the transition to a more technologically adept court system.
The Dual Nature of Technology
While lauding the benefits of technological integration, Justice Manmohan also issued a cautionary note regarding the misuse of technology. He observed that technology is often exploited to violate laws and commit crimes. Justice Manmohan stressed the importance of using technology appropriately to address these violations and ensure compliance with the law. He remarked, "Today, when I sit in court and decide matters, one of the things that strikes me is that technology is being used to circumvent the laws, to break the laws, to promote infringement. The only way we can deal with violations and bring people in conformity with the law is again to use technology in the right way."
By integrating advanced technologies and promoting digital transformation, Delhi's courts are setting a new standard for efficiency and innovation in the judicial system. These efforts not only enhance the functionality of the courts but also demonstrate the critical role of technology in modernizing legal processes.
Addressing Court Staff Shortages with Technology
The introduction of speech-to-text technology in Delhi courts is seen as a promising solution to the chronic staff shortages particularly the lack of stenographers faced by the judiciary.
Solving the Stenographer Shortage
Acting Chief Justice (ACJ) Manmohan highlighted a persistent issue in the judicial system: the shortage of stenographers. He noted, “As a Chief Justice, the biggest problem that I face is that all judges are requesting a large number of stenographers, and there is not enough pool available.” He believes that the speech-to-text facility will significantly alleviate this problem. By automating the recording of evidence, especially for joint registrars and district judiciary, a substantial number of stenographers can be reassigned to other crucial tasks.
Financial Challenges
Justice Manmohan also discussed the financial hurdles in implementing these technological advancements. He acknowledged the need for increased funding, stating, "We require a lot more finances. Naturally, the state has its priorities. So there is a bit of a tussle or there is a bit of an argument over it and we have to resolve it." The financial aspect remains a critical challenge as the courts seek to modernize and improve efficiency.
Expansion of Hybrid Court Facilities
Efforts are already underway to extend hybrid court facilities across all 691 district courtrooms in Delhi with an estimated budget of around Rs 387 crore. Fourteen pilot projects are currently in development indicating a substantial investment in the future of judicial processes.
Presence of Dignitaries
The event saw the presence of several prominent figures including Justice Suresh Kumar Kait, Justice Shakdhar, Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav, Justice Sanjeev Narula, Justice Tushar Rao Gedela and Justice Girish Kathpaliya. Principal District and Sessions Judges Sanjay Garf and Vinod Kumar along with Senior Advocate Mohit Mathur, President of the Delhi High Court Bar Association and Nitin Ahlawat, President of the Delhi Bar Association, also attended the inauguration. By leveraging speech-to-text technology and planning comprehensive hybrid court facilities, Delhi's judiciary is controlled to address both staffing and financial challenges which will mark a significant step towards a more efficient and modern legal system.
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