Supreme Court Judge Manmohan Calls for Legal System Reform to Govern AI and Digital Technologies
Justice Manmohan emphasized the urgent need for the country’s legal framework to evolve and responsibly regulate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Addressing key issues such as intellectual property and data privacy, he highlighted the challenge of assigning ownership to AI-generated creations, which include music, designs, and written content.
“AI can be likened to a brilliant but unpredictable teenager—full of potential but still learning the rules. Our legal system must adapt to govern such technologies responsibly,” the judge stated. He underscored the significance of data privacy, noting that data has become the new oil. The Supreme Court’s recognition of privacy as a fundamental right and the introduction of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act mark important steps toward establishing a rights-based data framework.
Cybersecurity: The Backbone of a Thriving Digital Economy
Justice Manmohan pointed out that cybersecurity forms the foundation of any digital economy. A secure digital environment is essential for global trade and investment, making strong laws and a culture of cyber resilience indispensable. He stressed the need for international cooperation since cyber threats do not respect national borders.
“Our laws must enforce stringent penalties while promoting cyber resilience. Cooperation across countries is critical to counter cross-border cyber risks,” he said.
Legal Certainty for Trade and Investment
Highlighting the judiciary’s commitment, Justice Manmohan affirmed that a predictable and efficient legal system is crucial for business certainty and economic growth. He noted that courts are evolving to meet the demands of a fair and thriving market economy.
International Intellectual Property Disputes Need Overhaul
As technology advances and businesses operate globally, intellectual property disputes have become more frequent and complicated. Justice Manmohan called for significant reforms in how international disputes are resolved.
He illustrated this with the example of mobile phones, which contain thousands of patents and rely on standardized technologies to function worldwide. This raises complex questions about Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) and whether royalty rates should be determined country-by-country or uniformly at a global level.
Balancing Innovation and Regulation in FinTech
The judge recognized India’s leadership in FinTech, particularly praising the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for its scale and efficiency. Beyond payments, FinTech is transforming areas like insurance, wealth management, and financial inclusion.
However, rapid innovation brings regulatory challenges. Justice Manmohan emphasized that legal frameworks must strike a balance between enabling innovation, protecting consumers, ensuring data privacy, maintaining financial stability, and preventing illicit activities.
Optimism Amid Challenges
Standing at a pivotal moment, the country has vast opportunities to expand its international trade presence. While challenges exist—from shifting geopolitics to evolving technologies—Justice Manmohan expressed optimism.
“International law may sometimes feel like a storm at sea, but with our constitutional values, skilled judiciary, and adherence to the rule of law, we will find our way,” he concluded.
Additional Highlights
- SILF president Lalit Bhasin also spoke at the event held in Delhi.
- The conference paid tribute to the Indian armed forces and honored those who lost their lives in the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
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