AI Led Unemployment - Do Workers Have A Legal Recourse?

Kamini Pandey, O.P. Jindal Global University

Introduction

The utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) is effectuating a profound metamorphosis within the worldwide economy, and it is imperative to acknowledge that India is not exempt from this transformative phenomenon. In numerous sectors, employees are presently being substituted by technology driven by artificial intelligence, and it is anticipated that this pattern will gain momentum in the forthcoming years. The aforementioned matter gives rise to substantial apprehensions regarding the legal alternatives accessible to individuals who have been subjected to termination as a result of artificial intelligence. Pursuant to a recent research study undertaken by the esteemed National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), it has been postulated that artificial intelligence (AI) possesses the potentiality to supplant a staggering number of 7 million employment positions within the territorial boundaries of India, by the year 2030. The survey has also ascertained that individuals employed in industries characterized by repetitive tasks and low skill requirements, namely manufacturing, retail, and transportation, are particularly susceptible to the possibility of being substituted. The aforementioned concerns pertaining to the issue of unemployment resulting from the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) have arisen due to substantial transformations within the labour market subsequent to the implementation of said AI technology within various work environments.

The present document undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the legal and constitutional frameworks existing within the jurisdiction of India, with the primary objective of addressing the legitimate concerns arising from the displacement of employment caused by the advent of artificial intelligence. We shall thoroughly examine the existing legal frameworks, constitutional provisions (Article 21), Government scheme i.e MGNEREGA , and also provide some recommendations for this also.