The Manipur High Court utilized an AI tool known as ChatGPT to facilitate research in a case involving a Village Defence Force (VDF) personnel, leading to a significant overturning of dismissal orders. Justice A Guneshwar Sharma employed ChatGPT to delve into the legal intricacies surrounding the dismissal of the personnel. Faced with an absence of satisfactory answers from the government’s lawyer, Justice Sharma turned to both Google and ChatGPT for assistance.
Acknowledging the unprecedented circumstances, the court underscored its reliance on Google and ChatGPT 3.5 for additional research, citing the acquisition of vital information through this technological aid. Utilizing the AI tool, the court uncovered crucial insights regarding the establishment and functions of the Village Defence Force in Manipur. Formed to bolster local security and aid law enforcement, particularly in rural regions, the VDF operates under the Manipur police, comprising volunteers from local communities trained to combat threats such as insurgencies and ethnic tensions.
The Manipur High Court’s scrutiny unearthed an office memorandum (OM) issued by the Manipur home department, delineating service conditions for VDF members. Notably, the memorandum mandated the provision of show cause notices to VDF personnel, affording them an opportunity to address any allegations levied against them.In light of these findings, the court concluded that the dismissal order against the petitioner contravened principles of natural justice. Consequently, the Manipur High Court issued a resolute directive for the immediate reinstatement of the petitioner. Advocate Ajmal Hussain adeptly represented the petitioner in the case, while Government Advocate Shyam Sharma appeared on behalf of the state.