Indian High Commission condemns disruption during Chief Justice Surya Kant's London lecture

LONDON: The Indian High Commission has condemned the disruptive behaviour of some audience members during a lecture attended by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant at Birkbeck, University of London. The incident took place during a talk on "Artificial Intelligence and International Law."

While the Chief Justice was speaking, a person in the audience attempted to raise questions about democracy and dissent in India. Organisers intervened and stopped the individual, explaining that the discussion was focused entirely on artificial intelligence and that questions about India's democratic record were outside the scope of the event.

Videos of the incident later circulated on social media, prompting an official response from the Indian High Commission. In its statement, the High Commission said such behaviour was inappropriate and did not reflect the standards of respectful public discussion.

The High Commission also noted that differences of opinion are natural in a democratic society. However, it emphasised that such views should be expressed in a civil, dignified and respectful manner. It also underscored the importance of maintaining decorum at academic and public events, particularly those involving constitutional authorities and members of the judiciary.

Chief Justice Surya Kant is currently in the United Kingdom on a six-day visit, during which he is scheduled to participate in several events related to technology, law, and global governance.