DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Philanthropist and BJP leader 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, "We are deeply honored to continue the legacy of Late Hon'ble Mr. 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 Sh. 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.

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.

(editor@dailyworld.in)