Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has raised a cautionary flag regarding the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in society, warning that the technology is demonstrating an “inherent bias” against the economically disadvantaged.
Speaking on Wednesday at the 8th Dinkar Memorial Lecture, titled “Rashmirathi: The Epic of Social Justice,” CJI Kant emphasized that while AI’s influence is growing, reports of its discriminatory nature are surfacing. He underscored that social justice remains the non-negotiable foundation of a humane and equitable society, even in an increasingly digital age.
The event, organized by the NGO Respect India, served as a tribute to the legendary “Rashtrakavi” Ramdhari Singh Dinkar. CJI Kant noted that the ideals of equality and human dignity, which are central to the Indian Constitution, were powerfully articulated in Dinkar’s literature long before they were legally codified.
Addressing the gathering in Hindi, the Chief Justice recalled his childhood influences, mentioning how his family encouraged the study of literary giants like Munshi Premchand, Suryakant Tripathi Nirala, and Mahadevi Varma. He drew a direct parallel between the “healing touch” of poetry during the freedom struggle and the intended role of the law today.
“Writers have always inspired society,” CJI Kant stated. “In law, we talk about ‘poetic justice,’ a concept that originated from these great poets. Dinkar’s poetry focuses on social justice just as the law highlights social equality and harmony.”
Reflecting on Dinkar’s famous epic Rashmirathi, the Chief Justice expressed concern that significant social inequalities persist more than seven decades after the work was published. He argued that the mere existence of legislation is insufficient to bridge these gaps.
“In a democracy, equality, dignity, and social harmony are essential,” the CJI remarked. “Merely passing laws is not enough unless every individual is treated with dignity and respect.”
He further noted that Mahatma Gandhi conferred the title of ‘Rashtrakavi’ upon Dinkar because his writings captured the “soul of the nation”—its aspirations, struggles, and inherent pain.
The lecture brought together prominent figures from the legal and political spheres. Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Vikas Singh noted that Dinkar’s work connects civilizational ethos with contemporary legal discourse. During the event, Lok Sabha MP Manoj Tiwari was honored with the ‘Dinkar Sanskriti Samman.’
Other speakers, including former Delhi University professor Rameshwar Rai and NGO founder Manish Kumar Chaudhary, reiterated that Dinkar’s insights into human values remain vital for the evolution of a just society.
The event was attended by Supreme Court judge Justice P B Varale, alongside senior advocates and students from various universities.
