Investigating the use of artificial intelligence in administrative decision-making

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into administrative decision-making processes in India. This integration aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in governance. However, the adoption of AI also raises concerns about accountability, transparency, and the potential for algorithmic biases.

Government Initiatives and AI Integration

1. Training Panchayat Representatives in AI

The Uttar Pradesh Panchayati Raj Department has partnered with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow to train panchayat representatives in administration, financial management, leadership, and the use of modern technologies, with a special emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative involves five-day training sessions conducted in multiple batches aimed at equipping village-level leaders with practical governance and decision-making skills.

2. AI Tools in Judicial Processes

The Supreme Court of India, in collaboration with IIT Madras, has developed and deployed AI and Machine Learning (ML) based tools integrated with the electronic filing software of the Registry. These tools assist in identifying defects in case filings, aiming to streamline the process and enhance efficiency. Approximately 200 Advocates-on-Record have been granted access to these prototypes to provide feedback and strengthen the administration of justice. 

3. AI in Consumer Law Decision-Making

A study introduced 'Nyay-Darpan,' an AI-based framework designed to aid decision-making in consumer law disputes. The system summarizes case files and retrieves similar case judgments, achieving over 75% accuracy in similar case prediction and approximately 70% accuracy across material summary evaluation metrics. This tool aims to enhance the efficiency and consistency of decisions in consumer law.

Judicial Perspectives on AI in Administrative Decision-Making

1. Kerala High Court's Guidelines on AI Use

The Kerala High Court issued guidelines prohibiting the use of AI tools for decision-making or legal reasoning within the district judiciary. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and credibility of the judicial system, raising concerns about potential risks such as privacy violations, data security breaches, and the erosion of public trust in judicial decision-making due to indiscriminate AI use. 

2. Delhi High Court's Interim Order on AI-Generated Content

In a case concerning the unauthorized use of actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's name, images, and persona, the Delhi High Court directed various digital platforms and commercial entities to immediately remove unapproved content featuring the actress, including those generated or misused through artificial intelligence. This case underscores the growing legal attention towards personality rights and the misuse of celebrity identities through AI. 

Challenges and Concerns

Algorithmic Bias: AI systems can perpetuate existing biases present in the data they are trained on, leading to discriminatory outcomes in administrative decisions.

Transparency: The "black-box" nature of many AI algorithms makes it difficult to understand how decisions are made, raising concerns about accountability.

Data Privacy: The use of AI requires access to large datasets, which can pose risks to individuals' privacy if not handled properly.

Legal Framework: There is a need for a robust legal framework to regulate the use of AI in administrative decision-making to ensure it aligns with constitutional principles and human rights.

Conclusion

The integration of AI into administrative decision-making in India holds promise for enhancing efficiency and transparency. However, it is crucial to address the associated challenges, including algorithmic bias, transparency, data privacy, and the establishment of a legal framework, to ensure that AI serves as a tool for justice and equity in governance.

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