Bengaluru, February 22: In a sharp rebuke, senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Margaret Alva has condemned the unruly protest staged by party workers during the prestigious AI Summit in Delhi. Responding to media queries, Alva emphasized the need for dignity and discipline at international events.
“I firmly believe that during international gatherings, we must uphold dignity, discipline, and a sense of responsibility,” she stated unequivocally. Her comments come amid ongoing police action against the protesters, with four individuals already arrested and raids underway to probe the incident further.
Alva’s criticism highlights a growing rift within the Congress party over the controversial demonstration, where activists reportedly disrupted the global event. Despite her strong stance, she praised Rahul Gandhi’s leadership qualities. “He is a leader whom the public accepts. His contributions are immense, and I congratulate him for the way he is fighting,” she added.
The protest has drawn widespread condemnation, including from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Addressing a massive rally in Meerut, PM Modi lambasted Congress for tarnishing India’s image. “India hosted the world’s largest AI Summit, a feat unmatched by any developing nation. The entire country swelled with pride,” he said.
Modi accused the opposition of petty politics, pointing to the activists’ provocative actions in front of foreign dignitaries. “The country knows Congress is already exposed. Why did they feel the need to strip down? This shows the oldest party in India is ideologically bankrupt,” he thundered.
As investigations continue, the episode underscores tensions ahead of key political battles, with Alva’s voice adding weight to calls for accountability within Congress ranks. The AI Summit, meant to showcase India’s tech prowess, has instead become a flashpoint in national discourse.