Digital Transformation and Democratic Values: Ethical Challenges of AI-Powered Administrative Systems in Indian Governance

Abstract

 The quick adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public administration, including apps like UMANG, DigiLocker, MyGov, and AI-enabled welfare delivery, marks a paradigmatic change in the architecture of democratic governance in India. While these initiatives in digital transformation can bring great benefits to service delivery in terms of efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity, they also present several ethical challenges that can jeopardize the very principles of democracy. This paper explores four areas of ethical concerns related to the use of AI in administrative applications in the Indian context: algorithmic bias and its effects on marginalized groups, the concept of ‘surveillance capitalism' and the violation of citizen privacy, the issue of lack of democratic participation in opaque decisions made by AI, and the potential exacerbation of socio-economic disparities due to the digital divide. The study is based on empirical data from government reports, peer-reviewed academic journals (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) (2015-2024), and comparative studies of international governance models, and it is argued that the digital governance journey in India needs to be taken up with an ethical approach in the spirit of the right, participation, and the constitution. Finally, the paper suggests policy recommendations for the responsible use of AI in public administration in India, highlighting the need for transparency, inclusiveness, and democratic accountability.