Artificial Intelligence – Soha Ali Khan Calls for Ethical AI Safeguards

Artificial Intelligence – Actor and author Soha Ali Khan has raised serious concerns about the risks women face as India’s digital ecosystem expands at an unprecedented pace. Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, she emphasized that the development of artificial intelligence must be accompanied by strong ethical protections to prevent harm and safeguard rights.

Technology’s Expanding Role in Women’s Empowerment

Khan reflected on the significant transformation she has observed across the country over the past decade. According to her, digital platforms have created new opportunities for young women, allowing many to build businesses, share their stories, and establish independent careers online. She noted that access to digital tools has reshaped how women participate in the economy and public life.

She pointed to the growing reach of digital literacy programs and online education initiatives, which have helped bridge long-standing gaps. From remote learning platforms to healthcare access powered by AI-driven systems, technology has offered solutions that were once difficult to imagine. Khan highlighted that young girls are increasingly using digital platforms to express themselves confidently, strengthening both their skills and their visibility.

Opportunities and Inequalities in the Digital Space

While acknowledging these advances, Khan warned that the digital world is not separate from society’s existing inequalities. She stated that technology often reflects the biases and power imbalances embedded within the communities that create it. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, she cautioned that it can intensify both progress and discrimination.

According to her, innovation alone cannot guarantee fairness. Without thoughtful oversight, new tools may widen gaps rather than close them. She urged stakeholders to recognize that the impact of technology is shaped by the values guiding its design and implementation.

Rising Threats from Misuse of AI Tools

Khan also drew attention to the darker side of emerging technologies. She expressed concern about the increasing misuse of AI tools to create deepfakes, manipulate images, and impersonate individuals online. Such practices, she said, are becoming faster, cheaper, and more accessible.

These developments pose significant risks, particularly for women who may lack the resources or knowledge to respond effectively. Online harassment, identity theft, and the unauthorized use of personal data can have lasting emotional and professional consequences. Khan noted that many victims struggle to find adequate legal or technical support.

Beyond Technology: A Broader Social Challenge

Describing the issue as larger than a technological problem, Khan stressed that online abuse affects mental health, public safety, and fundamental human rights. She argued that ethical frameworks for artificial intelligence should not be treated as optional guidelines but as essential requirements.

In her view, the conversation must move beyond innovation and profit toward accountability. She outlined key elements of what responsible AI should include: systems designed with safety at their core, privacy protections built in by default, transparent reporting mechanisms, and clear lines of responsibility when harm occurs.

A Call for Collective Responsibility

As India continues to expand its digital infrastructure and embrace AI-driven solutions, Khan’s remarks echo a broader demand for responsible innovation. Policymakers, technology companies, educators, and civil society groups, she suggested, must work together to ensure that technological progress does not undermine women’s safety or dignity.

Her address at the summit underscored the urgency of balancing opportunity with protection. While artificial intelligence offers immense potential to improve healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship, its benefits must be matched by safeguards that protect vulnerable users.

The rapid growth of India’s digital economy presents both promise and risk. Khan’s message was clear: the future of technology must be shaped not only by what is possible, but also by what is just and secure for everyone.