New Delhi
Chief Justice of India Justice B.R. Gavai cautioned against letting technology take over the justice system, warning that doing so could weaken public trust in the judiciary. Speaking on May 4 at the British Institute of International and Comparative Law in London, he emphasized that courts must not forget the human side of justice while embracing technological advances.
In his keynote on Courts, Commerce & the Rule of Law, Justice Gavai stressed that technology should serve justice, not replace the human element. Quoting former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud, he said, Technology should help ensure justice for all. He warned that if technology controls the legal system, it risks damaging the public’s faith and the very foundation of the rule of law.
He reminded that courts handle real cases affecting real people and that the law is about fairness and reason—not just algorithms or trends. The judiciary must balance tradition with innovation while protecting justice as a living promise.
Justice Gavai highlighted the courts’ key role in supporting the rule of law amid growing commercial and technological changes. He urged judges to be practical and ensure legal decisions promote commerce without compromising justice. Referring to a recent Supreme Court ruling, he stressed limited changes to arbitration awards to preserve their commercial purpose.
While technology advances, the Chief Justice affirmed that law is more than data—it is rooted in fairness and accountability. He urged courts worldwide to maintain this balance, so justice remains both efficient and humane in the digital age.