Senior advocates representing Indian Youth Congress (IYC) protesters have condemned the arrest of the outfit’s President Uday Bhanu Chib during an international AI Summit demonstration. They argue that such protests are a normal part of democratic societies and the arrest sends a negative global message. Senior advocate Sanjoy Ghosh emphasized that protests at major events are democratic rights and arresting opposition youth leaders for demonstrating is excessive.
Ghosh highlighted that seeking extended police custody in this case was disproportionate and against Supreme Court guidelines. He stressed that bail should typically be granted for offenses with less than seven years’ punishment. Another counsel, advocate Subhash Gulati, criticized alleged procedural lapses and restrictions on fundamental rights, stating that democracy is being stifled through oppression.
Outside the court, tensions rose as Congress workers protested when Chib was taken away under tight security. The police deployed large forces to maintain order. Authorities clarified that the arrest was due to law-and-order concerns from the protest and investigations are ongoing. The incident has sparked a political discussion on protest boundaries, policing, and the balance between public order and democratic freedoms.
