Madras High Court Allows AI Tool for Record Management in Arbitration Cases

In a first-of-its-kind move, the Madras High Court has permitted the limited use of an artificial intelligence–assisted system during court proceedings. However, the Court has made it clear that the technology will only assist with record management and will not interfere with judicial decision-making.

In a common order dated January 28, 2026, Justice N Anand Venkatesh approved a trial run of an AI-based tool named Superlaw Courts. The approval was granted in a batch of arbitration matters involving Gammon–OJSC Mosmetrostroy JV and Chennai Metro Rail Limited.

The Court explained that the AI system functions only as a highly organised record assistant. Its role is to prepare and organise case documents, create searchable records, and display relevant portions of documents when requested. Importantly, the system does not offer legal opinions or influence the judge’s reasoning in any manner.

The AI tool was demonstrated in open court in the presence of both parties’ lawyers and the judge. A detailed note explaining how the system works was shared and officially placed on record. According to this note, the tool operates strictly within the documents filed in the case. It does not access external sources, generate new information, or speculate when data is missing. If a particular document or detail is not available on record, the system simply states so.

Justice Venkatesh strongly emphasised that the AI will not assess evidence, judge credibility, interpret intent, or draw legal conclusions. Its work is limited to organising documents, removing duplicates, grouping related materials, and converting scanned files into searchable text. This is intended to help the Court handle large volumes of arbitral records more efficiently.

To ensure transparency, the Court directed that all interactions with the AI system—by both the Court and the lawyers—must be logged and accessible through a separate link. This will allow anyone reading the order to see exactly how and to what extent the system was used.

The Court also permitted the use of AI assistance in preparing a draft order that records facts, pleadings, evidence, and submissions. This draft will be shared with both sides for verification. Once this stage is completed, the Court clarified that the use of AI will stop, and the final judgment will be delivered solely by the judge.

Both parties agreed to use the system for a week and provide feedback on its effectiveness. The matters have been listed for final hearing from February 12, 2026, with a clear schedule for completion of arguments.