New Delhi: The Delhi Police have added charges of rioting against members of the Indian Youth Congress arrested in connection with a protest staged during last week’s ‘AI Impact Summit’ in the national capital.
The demonstration took place inside Hall No. 5 of Bharat Mandapam, where a group of Youth Congress activists allegedly removed their shirts and displayed T-shirts bearing slogans against the government and the proposed India–US interim trade agreement. Security personnel swiftly escorted them out of the venue.
Youth Congress President Arrested
Delhi Police arrested Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib, describing him as the “main conspirator” behind the protest. So far, eight members of the organization have been taken into custody.
According to Chib’s arrest memo, he was identified as the alleged mastermind behind the unlawful assembly at the high-security venue. Police claimed that protesters raised “anti-national slogans” and attempted to create a “riot-like situation” in the presence of international dignitaries and delegates attending the summit.
A Delhi court has remanded Chib to four days of police custody.
Charges Invoked Under BNS
Investigators have invoked Sections 191(1) (rioting) and 192 (provocation with intent to cause rioting) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Additional sections added to the FIR include Section 196 (promoting enmity between groups and acts prejudicial to harmony) and Section 197 (statements prejudicial to national integration), each carrying a potential prison term of up to three years.
Earlier charges included criminal conspiracy, unlawful assembly, obstructing a public servant in discharge of duty, disobedience of lawful orders, and common intention.
‘Aggressive Elements’: Police
Special Commissioner of Police (Crime and Public Relations) Devesh Chandra Srivastava termed the accused “aggressive elements,” alleging a premeditated attempt to breach security at an international event held on February 20, 2026.
He stated that some police personnel sustained injuries while restraining the protesters. CCTV footage from the venue and surrounding areas is being examined, and authorities claim that more individuals may have been involved in facilitating the act through financial and logistical support.
The case has now been transferred to the Crime Branch’s Inter-State Cell, considering what police described as a “multi-state background” and a deeper conspiracy angle. Coordination with law enforcement agencies in other states is ongoing.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked a political row. The Bharatiya Janata Party condemned the protest as a “shameful act aimed at tarnishing India’s image on a global platform.”
Meanwhile, the Youth Congress defended the demonstration, calling it a “peaceful protest” undertaken to safeguard national interests and oppose policies they claim could adversely affect the country.
As investigations continue, the case has intensified debate over the limits of protest at high-security international events and the balance between dissent and public order.
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