Youth Congress Chief Uday Bhanu Chib Arrested Over AI Summit Shirtless Protest

Delhi Police on Tuesday arrested Indian Youth Congress national president Uday Bhanu Chib in connection with the shirtless protest staged during the recently concluded AI Impact Summit in the national capital. His arrest marks the eighth detention in the case that has triggered political debate and intensified scrutiny of protest activities at high-profile international events.

According to police sources, Chib was taken into custody in the early hours after nearly 20 hours of questioning. Investigators allege he did not cooperate fully during interrogation. He has been booked under charges including criminal conspiracy, voluntarily causing harm to a public servant, obstructing a public servant on duty, and wilful disobedience.

Authorities claim evidence suggests Chib was involved in planning the protest, which featured demonstrators raising slogans and staging a shirtless demonstration during the summit. The AI Impact Summit drew global delegates and technology leaders, increasing the sensitivity of any disruptions.

Case transferred to Crime Branch

The investigation has now been transferred to the Delhi Police Crime Branch, with the Inter-State Cell tasked with further inquiry. Officials plan to confront Chib with seven other arrested individuals linked to the Youth Congress to establish how the protest was planned and executed.

Police sources indicated they are examining whether the demonstration was intended to embarrass India in front of international dignitaries attending the summit.

An arrest memo states that protesters allegedly raised provocative slogans, attempted to incite unrest, and obstructed police personnel on duty. Investigators are also examining individuals who fled the scene and possible coordination efforts.

Court proceedings and police remand

Chib was produced before Patiala House Court, where police described him as the “mastermind” of the protest. Authorities argued that individuals from multiple states were involved and that custodial interrogation is required to trace planning networks and digital evidence. The court granted four days of police remand.

Defence denies involvement

Chib’s legal counsel denied the allegations, stating he was not present at the protest site and had not issued instructions to participants. The defence argued that peaceful protest is a democratic right and noted that demonstrations often occur alongside major international events.

Investigation explores wider links

Investigators are also examining the funding and production of T-shirts worn during the protest, which carried political messages. Police have indicated they are reviewing whether the protest drew inspiration from international youth protest movements and whether coordinated mobilisation took place across states.

Political reactions intensify debate

The arrests have triggered sharp political reactions. Some leaders criticised the crackdown, calling the protest a democratic expression, while others condemned the demonstration as inappropriate during a global event.

The protest has become a focal point in broader political exchanges, with leaders across the spectrum weighing in on the balance between democratic dissent and maintaining decorum at international forums.

Focus shifts to investigation outcome

As the probe continues, investigators aim to determine the scale of planning, identify additional participants, and examine digital evidence. The outcome may shape future security and protest management protocols for international events hosted in India.

The case has underscored the tension between political expression and global event security, with authorities emphasising the need to maintain order while ensuring lawful democratic rights.