Ashwini Vaishnaw: 'Techno-Legal' justice key to combat AI, deepfake crimes

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressing the 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on the CBI's 62nd Foundation Day, emphasized the urgent need for a "techno-legal" approach to criminal justice in the face of rapidly evolving technologies like artificial intelligence and deepfakes. He urged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to lead the charge in developing state-of-the-art cyber forensic laboratories, collaborating with academic and research institutions.

Speaking on the theme "VIKSIT BHARAT @ 2047 - A Roadmap for CBI," Vaishnaw outlined a strategic vision for the agency's role in India's future. He highlighted the growing challenges posed by cyber-enabled crimes and stressed that traditional legal frameworks alone are insufficient.

"Our academia, our scientists, our researchers today possess remarkable strength and capabilities. This strength must be harnessed by investigating agencies, law officers, and government departments to co-develop technological solutions. Law alone will not be sufficient, we need techno-legal approach to address the challenges posed by new-age crimes and investigation," the Minister stated.

He called for institutional frameworks that facilitate collaboration between investigative agencies and ministries like MeitY, DoT, and DST, to co-create technologies for modern law enforcement. Vaishnaw's remarks underscore the government's recognition of the need to adapt to the digital age and equip law enforcement with the tools necessary to combat sophisticated cybercrimes.

During his address, the Minister also reflected on India's transformative journey over the past decade, highlighting four key pillars of growth:

• Public Investment in Infrastructure: Significant investments in physical, social, and digital infrastructure, including highways, airports, and digital connectivity.
• Inclusive Growth: Focus on programs that ensure equitable access to essential services, leading to poverty reduction and improved living standards.
• Manufacturing and Innovation: Initiatives like "Make in India" and "Startup India" driving growth in sectors like electronics and mobile manufacturing.
• Simplification of Legal Structures: Removal of archaic laws and implementation of modern legal frameworks like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).