Law Minister Arjun Meghwal Urges Integration of Human Consciousness with Modern Technology in Legal Systems

By 121 News

Chandigarh, March 29, 2025:--Noted Philanthropist Sanjay Tandon led Competent Foundation organised the fourth Memorial Lecture in memory of the late Hon'ble Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi, Former Chief Justice of India at Law Auditorium, Punjab University on Saturday which draws together a distinguished audience of legal professionals, academics and industry leaders for an enlightening discussion on the emerging challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The event was themed on 'Tackling the Challenges Created by Artificial Intelligence through the Existing Legal Framework,' which provided a platform for critical dialogue on how legal systems can adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

While welcoming the delegates, Sanjay Tandon, President, Competent Foundation while emphasising the 3S - Samay (Time), Sehat (Health) and Sambandh (Relations) philosophy of Justice Punchhi said that we are deeply honored to continue the legacy of Late Hon'ble Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi through this timely discussion. We are sure that this event will provide a much-needed opportunity to explore how the legal system can evolve to effectively address the challenges of AI while ensuring justice and equity.

The lecture was addressed by Chief Guest Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Guest of Honour Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun Palli, Judge, Punjab & Haryana High Court as both speakers provided invaluable insights into the implications of AI for the legal sector and broader society.

Arjun Meghwal discussed the importance of a robust legal framework to address the ethical, regulatory and governance challenges presented by AI technologies. Citing the example of noted educator Ishwar Chander Vidyasagar, he emphasized on maintaining the chord of liberty, fraternity and equality in the present era. "We have entered the age of Industry 4.0 and we cannot go back from this stage. The need of the hour to evolve with modern tools but with the human consciousness' said the law minister.

Justice Arun Palli's address focused on the judicial perspective, highlighting the existing legal tools available to tackle the challenges posed by AI as well as the potential gaps that need to be addressed. He underscored the importance of adapting the legal system to accommodate the rapid growth of AI technologies while ensuring fairness, transparency and accountability in their use.

Legal author Shruti Bedi emphasized that AI could help address India's backlog of over 4.5 crore pending cases. Drawing inspiration from countries like China and Estonia, she highlighted how AI could streamline judicial processes, improving efficiency in case management, legal research and overall court proceedings.

The event highlighted lively discussions among attendees with many expressing concern over the ethical dilemmas presented by AI and the need for clearer regulations. The delegates engaged in a thoughtful exchange of ideas on how to strike a balance between technological advancement and safeguarding fundamental rights.

In his vote of thanks, Senior Advocate Pawan Mutneja expressed gratitude to all the distinguished speakers and attendees, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue on AI's role in the legal system. He concluded by stressing the need for collaborative efforts to ensure that technology serves justice while preserving ethical values.

Also present on the occasion, Prof Renu Vig, Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Executive Committee members - Ashu Mohan Punchhi, Satyam Tandon, Pawan Kumar Dogra, Mahima Dogra Tandon, Suverna Mutneja, Priya Tandon, Director, Competent Foundation and others.