India preparing to introduce AI in judiciary to speed up verdicts in minor cases

After China, India is preparing to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its judicial system, with an initial focus on handling petty crime cases. The move aims to ease the burden on courts and help clear the backlog of smaller disputes.

AI-powered tools will be introduced to assist judges in routine verdicts, while judicial officers are expected to undergo training, including study visits abroad, to familiarise themselves with the technology.

The Indian judiciary has long faced challenges such as heavy caseloads, language barriers, and the need for digital modernisation. New technologies including machine learning, natural language processing, optical character recognition, and predictive analytics are now being explored to automate administrative tasks, improve case tracking, and streamline legal processes.

AI systems will reportedly support smart scheduling, case prioritisation, and proactive backlog reduction by forecasting potential delays and adjournments. They will also assist judges and lawyers in legal research by identifying precedents and summarising judgments, thereby improving consistency and efficiency.

As part of its digital reform push, the Government of India has allocated ₹7,210 crore for the e-Courts Phase III project, of which ₹53.57 crore is earmarked for integrating AI and blockchain technologies across High Courts. Officials say this investment reflects a strong commitment to enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in the judicial system.