EMPLOYMENT INEQUALITY IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: CHALLENGES AND POLICY RESPONSES

AUTHOR – KAMAL JANGRA* & DR SHUBHAM SINGH BANGLA**

* STUDENT AT SRM UNIVERSITY, HARYANA

** PROFESSOR AT SRM UNIVERSITY, HARYANA

BEST CITATION – KAMAL JANGRA & DR SHUBHAM SINGH BANGLA, EMPLOYMENT INEQUALITY IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: CHALLENGES AND POLICY RESPONSES, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (6) OF 2026, PG. 245-250, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming labour markets across the world by increasing efficiency, automating routine tasks, and reshaping employment structures. While AI offers opportunities for productivity growth and innovation, it has also intensified employment inequality by disproportionately affecting low-skilled workers, women, informal labourers, and economically weaker sections. The replacement of repetitive jobs, unequal access to digital skills, and concentration of technological benefits among highly skilled professionals have widened income and opportunity gaps. In developing countries such as India, these challenges are further aggravated by informality, inadequate social security, and digital divide. This article examines the relationship between AI adoption and employment inequality, focusing on job displacement, wage polarization, algorithmic discrimination, and regional disparities. It also evaluates the adequacy of existing labour laws and policy frameworks in addressing these concerns. The study argues that inclusive regulation, reskilling initiatives, and equitable technological governance are essential to ensure that AI promotes shared prosperity rather than deepening labour market inequality.