The J&K Judicial Academy today organised an interactive session of Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Dr. Pushpendra Singh Bhati, with the Trainee Civil Judges (Junior Division), Batch 2026.
The Chief Justice interacted with the trainee officers, encouraging them to ask questions and engage meaningfully in the dialogue.
While responding, the Chief Justice emphasised that Artificial Intelligence can assist in administrative and routine tasks and enhance efficiency but judicial decision making requires human reasoning, discretion, empathy and a proper understanding of the facts of each case. He underlined that AI must remain an aid and never a substitute for judicial judgment, with the ultimate responsibility resting with the judge. He further highlighted the need to balance technological advancement with the fundamental values of justice, fairness, transparency, and public trust.
Addressing the trainees on the use of social media, the Chief Justice advised them to avoid excessive reliance, maintain clear professional boundaries and exercise restraint, responsibility and caution in its usage. He reminded the officers that human values, humility, patience and balanced temperament are essential qualities of a judge and that a judge must always maintain basic human courtesy while remembering that he or she is ultimately a public servant.
The Chief Justice stressed that one must first be a good human being and only then can one become a good judge. This guidance provided the trainee judges with valuable insights into courtroom management, judicial temperament and professional conduct, thereby strengthening their preparedness for judicial responsibilities and reinforcing the Academy’s mission of shaping the future of the judiciary.
The programme commenced with a welcome address delivered by Director, J&K Judicial Academy, Naseer Ahmad Dar, who highlighted the significance of the Chief Justice’s first visit to the Academy after assuming office.
The programme was conducted by Priyanka Bhardwaj, Trainee Civil Judge (Junior Division), and concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Saiqa Sharief Khan, Trainee Civil Judge (Junior Division).