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Artificial Intelligence Can be a Tool to Threaten and Bully, Perpetuate Discrimination: CJI DY Chandrachud at IIT Madras

LI Network

Published on: 24 July 2023 at 15:55 IST

The growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in various aspects of life has sparked both excitement and concern among experts and society at large. Addressing these concerns, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud cautioned against the potential misuse of AI, stating that while it holds immense potential, it can also become a tool to threaten and bully, perpetuate discrimination, and impede freedom of expression.

He shared these thoughts during a special lecture at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras.

Speaking at the event on Saturday, CJI DY Chandrachud emphasized the need to strike a balance between technological advancement and safeguarding individual rights and dignity. While acknowledging the transformative power of AI in various sectors, he also highlighted the responsibility that comes with its development and application.

The CJI stressed that technology should not create fear in the minds of users about online abuse or harassment, as this directly impacts the ability to express thoughts and ideas freely. As AI-driven applications become more prevalent, the risk of misuse and exploitation of technology also increases.

During his address, CJI DY Chandrachud urged the technology community to be mindful of the ethical implications of AI and take measures to address potential biases and discriminatory practices embedded in AI algorithms. He called for greater transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of AI systems, ensuring that they do not infringe upon fundamental rights or exacerbate social inequalities.

The lecture at IIT Madras provided a platform for the CJI to engage with students and faculty members, who are at the forefront of technological innovation. It also highlighted the growing importance of legal and ethical considerations in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI.

Artificial Intelligence has witnessed exponential growth in recent years and has become a ubiquitous part of modern life. From personalized online recommendations to autonomous vehicles and advanced medical diagnostics, AI has the potential to revolutionize numerous sectors, making it a topic of intense research and development.

However, as AI becomes increasingly intertwined with society, concerns about its impact on privacy, security, and human rights have grown. Instances of AI being used to propagate misinformation, facilitate cyberbullying, and perpetuate discrimination have raised significant questions about the need for responsible and ethical AI practices.

CJI DY Chandrachud’s remarks shed light on the importance of understanding AI’s potential downsides and ensuring that technological advancements align with the principles of justice, fairness, and inclusivity. Encouraging dialogue and collaboration between the legal and technology communities, he emphasized the significance of upholding human values while embracing technological progress.

The lecture concluded on a note of vigilance and optimism, stressing the importance of collective efforts to harness the transformative power of AI responsibly, ultimately ensuring that technology becomes a force for good rather than a tool for harm.