If at any point technology begins to replace human judgment, we risk weakening the very institution of the judiciary that we are trying to strengthen- Justice B V Nagarathna , SC Judge

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Supreme Court judge Justice B V Nagarathna has said that judicial independence in the modern era is not just freedom from external power, but also from algorithmic influence.

She said the future of justice cannot be shaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI) alone, but must be determined by judges-supported by tools, yet always guided by constitutional values, the rule of law, and a commitment to equity and fairness.

AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
As reported by PTI Justice Nagarathna was speaking at the 22nd Biennial State-Level Conference of Judicial Officers, themed ‘Reimagining the Judiciary in the Era of Artificial Intelligence’, organised by the Karnataka State Judicial Officers Association.

“The principle that must remain absolutely unchanged amid all this change is the rule of law. No matter how advanced technology becomes, the foundation of our judiciary cannot and must not shift,” she said.

“The rule of law is not a technical concept; it is a moral and constitutional commitment that ensures fairness, equality, and accountability,” she added.

Maintaining Human Judgement in the Digital Age
Justice Nagarathna emphasised that artificial intelligence must always remain on the periphery-as a tool, an aid, and a support system, but never the core of decision-making.

“The core must always be human judgment, guided by legal reasoning, constitutional values, and a deep sense of justice. If at any point technology begins to replace human judgment, we risk weakening the very institution of the judiciary that we are trying to strengthen,” she said.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Supreme Court Judge Aravind Kumar, and Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court Vibhu Bakhru were among those present at the event.