AI and Law Must Evolve Together to Safeguard Citizens, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar States

Vijaya Rahatkar, NCW Chairperson, highlights the necessity for AI and law to evolve concurrently to protect citizens in the digital era during a workshop in Shimla.

At a workshop in Shimla, Vijaya Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, emphasised the need for artificial intelligence and law to progress together. She highlighted the importance of this evolution to safeguard citizens in today's digital era. Addressing law students, she stressed that understanding AI is crucial as courts increasingly use algorithmic tools and deepfakes influence public opinion.

The event was organised by YASHODA AI, a key initiative of the NCW, in partnership with Future Shift Labs (FSL). FSL is dedicated to creating inclusive digital environments. The workshop aimed to educate participants on AI's impact on judicial systems, case prediction, and evidence evaluation. It also covered cyber law, women's safety, and ethical AI use.

Empowering India's Youth and Women

Rahatkar noted that India's young population is its greatest asset in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. She stated that these young thinkers and innovators will shape the country's digital future. In line with Atmanirbhar Bharat, every student and woman contributing to this vision strengthens the foundation of a self-reliant nation.

She explained that this belief led to the creation of YASHODA AI. The programme aims to empower India's youth and women with knowledge and tools to lead responsibly in an AI-driven world. This initiative seeks to equip them with skills necessary for navigating the complexities of AI technology.

Future Guardians of Digital Justice

Nitin Narang, Founder of FSL, spoke before the event. He remarked that law students are not just learners but future protectors of digital justice. Through YASHODA AI, they aim to inspire critical thinking about ethics, rights, and responsibilities in an AI-powered world.

The workshop explored various aspects of AI's influence on legal systems. It examined how AI affects judicial processes, including case prediction and evidence evaluation. Additionally, it addressed cyber law issues such as online abuse and gendered cyber threats.

The focus on practical tools and ethical use of AI was a key component of the workshop. Participants were trained on understanding digital rights and addressing cyber threats. This training is essential for preparing future legal professionals to handle challenges posed by AI advancements.

Rahatkar's call for collaboration between AI and law reflects a broader need for adaptation in legal education. As technology continues to evolve, equipping future lawyers with AI knowledge becomes increasingly important. This approach ensures they can effectively navigate the complexities of modern legal challenges.

With inputs from PTI