Eye-witnesses react to Youth Congress’ shirtless protest at AI Summit 2026: ‘Such acts harm India’s image globally’

On February 20, 2026, members of the Indian Youth Congress staged a shirtless protest at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, an event attended by prominent global leaders and influencers in artificial intelligence. The demonstration, intended to draw attention to various social issues, received mixed reactions from onlookers and attendees. Many witnesses expressed concern that such actions could potentially tarnish India's reputation on the world stage, particularly during an event that aimed to showcase the country’s advancements in technology and innovation. Critics emphasized that while the protest may have been driven by genuine intentions, the manner of expression was seen as disruptive and inappropriate for the formal atmosphere of the summit. Supporters of the protest, however, argued that it was a bold statement highlighting pressing issues that require urgent attention. The incident has reignited discussions around the balance between free expression and maintaining decorum at national and international events, raising questions about the effectiveness of unconventional protest methods in conveying political messages. As India continues to position itself as a leader in AI and technology, the need for thoughtful representation at such forums has become increasingly critical.