Shirtless Protest: Delhi Court Sends Youth Congress Members to 5-Day Police Custody

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Saturday remanded four members of the Youth Congress to five days of police custody following their arrest during a shirtless protest at the India AI Impact Summit.

The accused — Krishna Hari, Kundan Yadav, Ajay Kumar, and Narasimha Yadav — were produced before the Patiala House Court after being detained in connection with the demonstration that disrupted proceedings at the high-profile event.

The investigating agency sought custodial interrogation, stating that it was necessary to determine whether a larger conspiracy was involved, identify other participants, and examine how the protest was organised. The defence opposed the plea and sought bail, arguing that the accused were engaged in a peaceful protest and that continued detention was unjustified.

After hearing submissions from both sides, the court granted five days of police custody and rejected the bail applications.

The protest took place during the India AI Impact Summit, attended by senior political leaders, industry representatives, and technology experts. According to officials, several Youth Congress workers removed their shirts, raised slogans, and posed in front of the event signage in an attempt to disrupt proceedings. Security personnel intervened and escorted them out of the venue.

The incident drew strong political reactions. Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party criticised the demonstration as inappropriate and accused the opposition of attempting to derail a national event highlighting India’s technological advancements.

In response, the youth wing of the Indian National Congress stated that the protest aimed to draw attention to concerns about corporate interests being prioritised over national interests. The group also cited economic issues such as rising prices and unemployment, claiming that young people were increasingly dissatisfied.

Police said the investigation into the matter is ongoing.

— IANS