Delhi HC Raises AI Impersonation Concerns in Video-Conferencing Appearances

The Delhi High Court on Monday observed that advancements in technology and the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) make it necessary to consider the possibility of impersonation during video-conferencing appearances before authorities.

A single-judge Justice Subramonium Prasad made this observation while hearing a plea by a couple seeking registration of their marriage under the Special Marriage Act. One of them appeared through video-conferencing.

The couple informed the Court that they had married earlier in the year following Islamic rituals. However, the husband, who had to travel to Canada for work, could not be physically present before the local sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) on later occasions. The SDM authorities raised concerns about virtual appearances, stating that it could be difficult to verify identity and rule out impersonation.

Taking these technological considerations into account, the single bench directed the husband to approach the nearest Indian High Commission to verify his identity. Once verified, he can participate in the marriage registration proceedings remotely.

The Court then disposed of the plea.