Jindal Global Law School (JGLS), O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, has taken a historic step by launching India’s first-ever Bachelor of Arts (BA) programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Law.
This pioneering programme is designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and the legal profession. The curriculum will equip students with a robust understanding of AI technologies, along with core legal principles, preparing them for careers in technology law, AI policy-making, compliance, and ethical governance.
The launch underscores JGU’s dedication to academic innovation and societal impact, positioning the university at the forefront of preparing legal professionals to navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities brought about by the AI revolution.
Speaking at the event, Prof (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, highlighted the transformative role of AI in the legal domain. He outlined five significant implications of AI for global legal systems:
- Enhanced Legal Analytics: AI-powered tools, such as predictive analytics, are revolutionizing legal practice by predicting case outcomes based on historical data, fostering advancements in legal tech globally.
- Bias and Discrimination in AI: Addressing AI bias is critical to ensuring fair outcomes in legal processes, particularly in India, where this is a pressing issue.
- AI in Cross-Border Disputes: AI-driven platforms are streamlining arbitration in cross-border trade disputes, raising questions about sovereignty and the standardization of legal frameworks internationally.
- Cybersecurity and Privacy Challenges: High-profile breaches like the Pegasus spyware case have exposed vulnerabilities in data security, highlighting the need for robust legal protections in the AI era.
- Automated Law Enforcement: The rise of AI in surveillance raises concerns about privacy, civil liberties, and potential human rights violations, necessitating careful regulation to maintain public trust.
The programme was launched at a seminar on “Artificial Intelligence and Law,” with Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union Minister of Law and Justice, as the Chief Guest. Also present were Mr. Naveen Jindal, Chancellor of JGU, alongside legal scholars, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the dynamic intersection of AI and law.
Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, in his address, emphasized the importance of embracing technology while balancing ethical concerns and privacy protection. He stressed that AI should be used to enhance the efficiency of legal systems but should not replace human judgment, which remains essential in decision-making.
Dr. Raj Kumar also raised concerns regarding the ethical implications of AI, such as the potential biases inherited by AI systems, which can lead to unjust legal outcomes. He underscored the need to ensure that AI does not exacerbate the digital divide, particularly in rural areas where access to technology is limited. Legal frameworks must evolve to address these challenges while promoting innovation.
Mr. Justice Dipankar Dutta, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding AI’s impact on the legal profession but affirmed its transformative potential. Similarly, Attorney General Mr. Venkataramani and Solicitor General Mr. Tushar Mehta discussed the necessity of balancing technological advancements with the nuanced human insights essential to the judicial system.
Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India, emphasized that while AI has the potential to automate routine tasks, it cannot replace the ethical considerations and judgment brought by human lawyers and judges.
Prof. (Dr.) S.G. Sreejith, Executive Dean of Jindal Global Law School, spoke about the programme’s vision to help students understand and shape the future of law and technology.
With this groundbreaking initiative, Jindal Global Law School is not only preparing students to lead in the evolving field of AI and law but is also setting a global benchmark in integrating technology into legal education.
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