A group comprising former Chief Justices of High Courts, senior judges, civil servants, and armed forces veterans have jointly criticized the recent protest by Indian Youth Congress members at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam. The protestors’ shirtless demonstration inside the high-security venue, which hosted international delegates and tech leaders, was labeled a “national disgrace” that tarnished India’s global reputation.
The signatories expressed deep shock over the protest, denouncing it as a “grotesque betrayal of national dignity” that occurred during a crucial moment when India was showcasing its technological advancements to the world. They emphasized that the orchestrated protest, involving individuals who gained access through authorized QR codes, was a premeditated act aimed at disrupting the event and projecting instability to global investors and partners.
While acknowledging the right to democratic protest, the statement highlighted that such actions should not lead to anarchy or public humiliation of the nation. It stressed the importance of political opposition through intellectual discourse and parliamentary debate, rather than resorting to sensational acts like public stripping in front of foreign dignitaries for social media attention.
The joint statement, signed by prominent figures including former Chief Justices and senior officials, called for a unified condemnation of actions that bring disgrace to the country on international platforms. It urged all stakeholders to reject any political culture that glorifies the public defamation of the nation.
