Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant has issued a compelling call for the establishment of a national-level legal academy. This proposed institution would be dedicated to equipping the legal fraternity with the tools to confront the complex challenges emerging from rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybercrimes.
Address at the Inaugural Session in Goa
Justice Surya Kant made this significant proposal while delivering the inaugural address at the Bar Council of India’s National Conference and Symposium on Mediation. The event was held at the India International University of Legal Education and Research (IIULER) in South Goa on 26 December 2025.
In his speech, the CJI underscored the urgent need for the legal system to evolve in tandem with technology. He highlighted that traditional legal frameworks are increasingly being tested by novel issues arising from the digital realm, necessitating specialized education and research.
The Need for Specialized Legal Training
The envisioned national legal academy would serve as a central hub for advanced study and policy formulation. Its primary focus would be to build expertise in navigating the legal grey areas created by AI algorithms, data privacy breaches, cryptocurrency fraud, and other sophisticated cybercrimes.
Justice Surya Kant emphasized that such an institution is no longer a luxury but a necessity. It would prepare future lawyers, judges, and legal scholars to interpret and shape laws that are future-proof and responsive to a digitally-driven society. The academy would likely foster interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts from law, technology, and ethics.
Broader Implications for India's Legal Landscape
This proposal marks a pivotal moment in India's judicial discourse. By formally recognizing the gap in legal preparedness for tech-driven challenges, the CJI has set the agenda for systemic reform. The establishment of a dedicated academy could accelerate the development of indigenous jurisprudence on technology law, positioning India as a thought leader in the global conversation.
The conference in Goa, which featured mediation as a key theme, also provided the perfect backdrop for this announcement. It reinforced the message that the legal profession must embrace both traditional dispute-resolution methods and cutting-edge knowledge to remain effective and relevant in the 21st century.
