AI Summit 2026: Youth Congress Workers Stage Shirtless Protest At AI Summit Over India-US Trade, Detained

• Youth Congress workers stage protest at India AI Impact Summit in Delhi
• Demonstrators remove shirts, raise slogans against Centre over US trade deal
• Brief chaos reported inside Bharat Mandapam during summit event

Unusual scenes unfolded at the India AI Impact Summit on Friday when Youth Congress workers staged a protest inside the venue, alleging that the Centre had agreed to an unfavourable trade deal with the United States.

The demonstration briefly disrupted proceedings at the high-profile event being held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Protest Erupts Inside Summit Venue

Eyewitnesses said a group of protesters gathered inside one of the halls and began raising slogans against the central government. Some demonstrators removed their shirts and waved them in the air while shouting slogans, drawing attention from visitors and security personnel.

The sudden protest created a moment of chaos at the summit, which has been hosting global technology leaders, policymakers and delegates from multiple countries. Security officials quickly intervened to bring the situation under control.

Why protesters raised slogans:

• Alleged dissatisfaction with India-US trade deal
• Claims of inadequate gains for India
• Opposition criticism of government's decision
• Congress Raises Trade Deal Concerns

The Youth Congress members said their protest was aimed at opposing the trade framework between India and the United States. The Congress party has been critical of the agreement, claiming India did not secure fair benefits under the deal.

Opposition leaders have repeatedly questioned the terms of the arrangement, arguing that it could impact domestic industries and economic interests.

Delhi Police said four to five individuals have been detained in connection with the incident, and further investigation is underway to determine how the group managed to enter Bharat Mandapam. Officials are examining whether the Congress workers gained access using an entry pass or a QR code.

Summit Continues Amid Tight Security

Despite the disruption, the AI Impact Summit continued as scheduled with heightened security inside the venue. The multi-day event has drawn participation from global tech leaders, government officials and delegates from over 100 countries.

Authorities remained on alert following the incident to ensure smooth conduct of sessions and public visits at the summit.