Supreme Court flags ‘alarming’ use of AI in drafting petitions, cites use of non-existent ‘Mercy vs Mankind’ case

The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns over the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) by legal professionals for drafting petitions. During a recent hearing, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice BV Nagarathna underscored the alarming trend, particularly highlighting a peculiar instance where a non-existent case, 'Mercy vs Mankind,' was cited in legal documents. This incident exemplifies the potential pitfalls of using AI without proper oversight and verification, as it could lead to significant misrepresentation in legal proceedings. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and urged lawyers to exercise caution when integrating technology into their practices. The discussion reflects a broader concern regarding the intersection of technology and law, especially as AI tools become more prevalent in various sectors. As the legal landscape evolves, the judiciary is calling for a balanced approach that harnesses the benefits of technological advancements while ensuring accountability and accuracy in legal documentation.