Indian Courts Evaluate AI Speech-to-Text Tool for Enhanced Efficiency

India is currently conducting trials to implement AI tools that can assist judges in its courts, such as a speech recognition system that automatically transcribes testimonies into text. This initiative is part of a pilot hybrid court project in Delhi aimed at improving judicial efficiency and reducing delays using AI tools.

One of the key tools being tested is a speech-to-text feature that converts voice recordings, such as testimonies, into written text. Traditionally, courts rely on stenographers who transcribe spoken words into text using shorthand or specialized equipment. However, this new tool utilizes speech recognition and advanced language models to display information on a screen that judges can quickly reference during court proceedings.

Acting Chief Justice of Delhi High Court Justice Manmohan expressed the significance of this technology in addressing the shortage of stenographers available for court proceedings. The implementation of the speech-to-text feature, especially during the recording of evidence by joint registrars and the district judiciary, will potentially alleviate the scarcity of stenographers for other purposes.

In addition to the speech recognition tool, a desktop application is being introduced to allow judicial officers to convert physical documents into digital formats. The plan is to transform all district courtrooms in Delhi into these hybrid court facilities, with 14 pilot projects currently in progress. While optimistic about the technological advancements in the Delhi court system, Manmohan cautioned about the misuse of AI to subvert the law.

India joins other countries in integrating AI tools in courthouses, such as Chinese judges who have been using AI technology since 2022 to display references and recommendations on laws and regulations. Meanwhile, in the U.S., attempts have been made to create an "AI lawyer" to represent plaintiffs in court, but restrictions on electronic devices in courtrooms have limited its usage.

In a statement earlier this year, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts recognized the benefits of AI for judges but emphasized that it will not replace them. The ongoing trials in India reflect a global trend towards leveraging AI tools to enhance judicial processes.