Ethical AI is Mandatory, Not Optional
At the India AI Impact Summit 2026, held from February 16 to 20 in New Delhi, actor Soha Ali Khan raised critical concerns regarding the rising risks for women in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. She emphasized that strong ethical safeguards in artificial intelligence are now essential.
Transformative Opportunities for Women
As an advocate for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Khan participated in a session titled “Reimagining Gender in Technology – Designing Safer Digital Futures and Advancing Ethical AI for Inclusive Platforms”. She highlighted how technology has created new opportunities for women in India, stating, “I’ve watched this transformation across India as well.” Young women are now building businesses online, with digital platforms enabling them to become entrepreneurs and share their stories.
Khan noted that digital literacy programs and online tools have opened up avenues for learning and expression. “AI is extraordinary. It improves healthcare access and expands education,” she remarked. She pointed out the role of digital tools in empowering women, particularly young girls, to become confident storytellers.
Bias and Inequality in the Digital Space
However, Soha warned that the digital environment is fraught with bias and inequality. “The digital world is not neutral. It reflects the society that builds it. And now AI is accelerating everything,” she stated. While AI offers numerous benefits, it is also being misused at an alarming rate, making it easier than ever to impersonate individuals, create deep fakes, and misuse personal data. Unfortunately, many women lack the knowledge to combat these issues.
The Necessity of Ethical AI
Khan stressed that the challenge extends beyond technology itself. “This is not just a tech issue. It is a mental health issue, it is a public health issue, and it is a human rights issue, which is why ethical AI is not optional. I would say it is mandatory,” she asserted.
She outlined key components of ethical AI, which include safety by design, privacy by default, a meaningful consent process, a clear reporting system, and real accountability.
Accountability Gaps in AI Systems
Andrea Wojnar of UNFPA, also speaking at the session, echoed Khan’s sentiments regarding the lack of accountability in AI systems. She described these systems as unequal and biased, reshaping both risks and opportunities. “AI will influence safety. But trust is also an economic issue,” she noted, explaining that when women and girls feel unsafe, their online participation diminishes, limiting the potential of the digital economy.
Wojnar emphasized that a lack of trust in AI-enabled services leads to slower adoption and increased reputation risks, ultimately hindering the digital economy’s growth.
Conclusion
The India AI Impact Summit serves as a significant platform for discussing the future of AI and its implications for society. With top global tech figures and Indian business leaders in attendance, the event underscores the urgent need for addressing ethical considerations in AI to ensure a safer and more inclusive digital future.
