The Congress party defended a shirtless protest by its youth organization members at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in Delhi. The protest was described as an expression of anger against the Union government for its reported trade deal with the United States. The party stated that the protest symbolized the frustration of the youth, farmers, and businessmen in the country.
The Congress accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of compromising the nation’s interests by striking a trade deal with America. It alleged that Modi had jeopardized the welfare of the youth, farmers, and business community by this agreement. The party emphasized that such actions were against the national interest and criticized the government’s decision.
A political controversy arose due to the protest staged by the Indian Youth Congress during the event, which was attended by various foreign dignitaries and tech leaders. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) condemned the Congress for disrupting an international gathering and demanded an apology for the protest.
BJP leaders criticized the protest as a disruptive and shameful act. BJP MP Sambit Patra referred to it as a “topless, brainless, and shameless” exercise, while BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari labeled it a “national shame.” The Congress, however, defended the protest as a constitutionally granted right to raise voices against perceived injustices.
Four Youth Congress leaders had entered the Summit venue in Delhi by registering online, scanning QR codes, and concealing protest messages under their clothing. The final details of the trade agreement with the US are expected to be disclosed next month.
