The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed apprehension that the rise of Artificial Intelligence could pose a serious threat to employment, especially for drivers in India.
Justice Surya Kant, while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) related to electric vehicles, remarked that the increasing use of AI could eventually lead to large-scale job losses in the driving sector.
“My worry is that the AI should not eliminate the employment of these drivers. In India, driver jobs are a big source of employment,” said Justice Kant, who was sitting on the Bench alongside Justice N Kotiswar Singh.
Even Advocates Not Safe From AI,
In a lighter vein, Justice Kant also noted that even lawyers may not be immune to the changes brought by AI. “AI is a fast-evolving technology. One module becomes obsolete in months. We have seen AI-based advocates arguing in the USA. We are worried about the Bar,” he commented.
PIL Filed For Implementation Of EV Policy
The PIL was filed by the Centre for Public Interest Litigation and argued by senior advocate Prashant Bhushan. The plea urged the Court to direct the government to implement its own policy on promoting the use of electric vehicles, citing serious environmental concerns.
Bhushan pointed out that India is home to 14 of the 15 most polluted cities in the world and emphasized the urgent need for clean transportation alternatives. “All I am seeking is that the government should implement its own policy,” he said.
Bhushan also drew attention to the inadequate EV infrastructure in the country. He stated that charging stations in many regions are placed as far as 400 kilometers apart, making EV usage impractical for the average consumer.
Centre Seeks
Attorney General R Venkataramani, representing the Union government, asked the Court for more time to provide details on the steps taken so far to promote EVs. The Court granted the request and scheduled the next hearing for May 14.
While acknowledging the role of the government, the Court also emphasized that promoting EVs is a collective responsibility that involves other institutions and sectors as well.
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