New Delhi erupted in controversy just a day after Youth Congress activists staged a dramatic shirtless protest at the India AI Impact Summit 2026. Taking to social media platform X, the Indian Youth Congress shared an iconic image of Mahatma Gandhi to justify their bold demonstration.
The post boldly declared, ‘We are Gandhi’s descendants. Shirtless or not, we fought yesterday and will keep fighting.’ This striking message came amid backlash over the Friday disruption at Bharat Mandapam, where protesters stormed the high-profile event.
Eyewitnesses described how a group of Youth Congress members barged into the venue, stripped off their shirts, and posed for photos in front of the summit’s display board. Chanting slogans against unemployment, inflation, and the India-US trade deal, they targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government.
Security forces swiftly intervened, detaining the activists and escorting them out to prevent any further disruption to the international gathering. Attendees included senior officials, industry leaders, and foreign delegates, making the incident a flashpoint in political discourse.
In another X post, Youth Congress remarked, ‘When those in power refuse to listen, the youth rise up.’ They also questioned the double standards: ‘When they protest, it’s patriotism. When we do, it’s national shame?’
Ruling alliance leaders slammed the act as an attempt to tarnish India’s global image on a prestigious tech platform. Opposition figures, however, hailed it as a legitimate expression of dissent in a democracy.
This clash has ignited fresh debates on technology’s role in politics, youth activism, and the boundaries of free speech in India. As the nation gears up for more AI-driven innovations, such protests underscore the tensions between progress and public grievances.