AI-Generated Fake Judgments a ‘Global Menace’: SC Warns of Threat to Judicial Process

Recently, the Supreme Court sounded a strong warning against the growing misuse of artificial intelligence in legal proceedings, observing that citing non-existent, AI-generated judgments has become a widespread concern not just domestically but globally. While granting limited relief to a company director by removing adverse remarks made against him by the Bombay High Court, the Court emphasised the urgent need for vigilance, signalling broader institutional concern over the integrity of legal submissions.

The case arose after the High Court flagged written submissions that appeared to rely on AI-generated content, including a purported judgment that could not be traced in any legal database. The issue stemmed from proceedings under the Maharashtra Rent Control Act, where the court noted inconsistencies and stylistic markers suggesting automated drafting. Despite efforts by the court and its research staff, the cited authority remained unverified, prompting the High Court to impose costs and caution against such practices, warning that unchecked reliance on unverified AI outputs could obstruct judicial efficiency.

Examining the matter, the Apex Court chose to expunge the High Court’s remarks as a measure of indulgence, without conclusively ruling on whether the disputed citation was indeed relied upon by the appellant. However, the Bench made it clear that the issue extends far beyond the present dispute, observing, “the fact remains that this menace is rampant in all Courts now, not only in India rather throughout the world.” The Court further indicated that it is already examining the broader implications of such practices on the judicial side, signalling possible future intervention.

Accordingly, the special leave petition was disposed of.

Case Title: Heart And Soul Entertainment Ltd. Vs. Deepak S/O Shivkumar Bahry

Case No.: Special Leave to Appeal (C) No(s). 3090/2026

Coram: Hon’ble Mr. Justice Rajesh Bindal, Hon'ble Mr. Justice Vijay Bishnoi

Advocate for the Petitioner: Petitioner-in-person

Advocate for the Respondent: Sr. Adv. Madhavi Divan, AOR Pranav Sarthi, Adv. Janay Jain, Adv. Rishabh Jadhav, Adv. Sameer

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