Kerala To Adopt AI Tools In Governance, Says V D Satheesan

Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly V D Satheesan on Wednesday said that the state would begin using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in governance as part of a broader shift towards a data-driven administrative system . He, however, firmly rejected allegations that AI was used in preparing the state’s recent White Paper on finances.

Satheesan said the government was exploring structured ways to integrate AI into administrative work. “This government will use Artificial Intelligence tools. We are moving towards a data-driven government. We have already begun studying how to implement this and have assigned the necessary personnel,” he told reporters after the cabinet meeting.

Responding to criticism, he asked, “What is wrong with a government using AI?” while clarifying that the technology was not used in preparing the White Paper . “Some people keep saying AI was used. Even if it had been used, what would be wrong with that? But in this case, it was not used,” he said.

The remarks came after CPI(M) leader T M Thomas Isaac alleged that the White Paper tabled in the Assembly may have been prepared using AI tools, raising concerns over the handling of sensitive government financial data .

Satheesan dismissed suggestions that the 122-page document could not have been prepared within a short period. “People are asking how a 122-page document was produced in ten days. Does the government not have the capacity to do that? Of course it does,” he said.

He also responded to criticism over disclosure of treasury balances, stating there was no secrecy involved. He noted that former Finance Minister K N Balagopal had already publicly mentioned figures related to treasury funds, including references to around ₹6,000 crore , questioning claims of confidentiality breaches.

The White Paper was prepared by a three-member committee headed by former Cabinet Secretary K M Chandrasekhar , and was tabled in the Assembly on June 4.