THE BEYOND OBITER LAW BLOG: Law & Policy
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In a significant step towards strengthening judicial cooperation, the Supreme Court of India and the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Moscow aimed at enhancing collaboration in the areas of technology-driven court administration, judicial training and institutional capacity building.
The MoU was signed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation Igor Krasnov during an official visit by the Indian delegation to Russia. The agreement seeks to institutionalise cooperation between the apex courts of the two countries through the exchange of judicial experiences, sharing of best practices in information technology, and programmes relating to professional education and personnel development.
Addressing the Russian delegation, Chief Justice Surya Kant observed that despite emerging from different legal traditions, the Indian and Russian judicial systems face a common challenge of maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice while adapting to rapid technological and societal changes.
Highlighting India's digital transformation in the judiciary, the Chief Justice noted that technology has become an integral component of the justice delivery system. He referred to initiatives such as digitisation of court records, virtual hearings, video conferencing facilities and online access to judicial records, all of which have been introduced to make courts more accessible, transparent and responsive.
The Chief Justice also highlighted the growing use of Artificial Intelligence within the judiciary. Referring to the Supreme Court's technological initiatives, he noted that the Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software (SUVAS) facilitates translation of judicial documents and judgments into multiple regional languages, while the recently launched AI-powered chatbot “Su Sahay” assists litigants, lawyers and members of the public with information relating to court procedures, filing requirements and case status.
He further drew attention to the “One Case, One Data” initiative, which seeks to create a standardised digital record for each case across judicial platforms, and noted that technology is increasingly being utilised to promote online arbitration and mediation as efficient and cost-effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
At the same time, Chief Justice Surya Kant underscored that technology must remain a tool to enhance access to justice rather than replace judicial decision-making. Stressing the importance of human oversight, he observed that while artificial intelligence may assist judges through translation, transcription, information management and administrative support, it cannot determine outcomes, assess witness credibility, evaluate evidence or exercise judicial discretion.
“The administration of justice must remain a fundamentally human endeavour,” the Chief Justice remarked, adding that technological innovation must be balanced with the enduring values that underpin judicial independence and fairness.
The discussions between the two delegations focused on the use of advanced technologies in judicial practice and the importance of judicial education, professional training and capacity building for court personnel. Chief Justice Surya Kant also expressed hope that the MoU would pave the way for greater collaboration through exchanges between judicial academies, joint training programmes, research partnerships and the sharing of institutional best practices.
Describing the agreement as an important milestone in judicial diplomacy, the Chief Justice said that courts across jurisdictions are confronting similar challenges relating to technology, institutional preparedness and public trust. He expressed confidence that continued engagement between the two apex courts would contribute to strengthening judicial institutions in both countries.
The MoU is expected to facilitate long-term cooperation between the Indian and Russian Supreme Courts in the fields of judicial administration, technological innovation, legal research and professional development.