Delhi Police announced on Tuesday that investigators have discovered substantial evidence pointing to a well-planned conspiracy behind the Indian Youth Congress protest at the India AI Impact Summit. Specifically, Special Commissioner of Police Devesh Chandra Srivastava addressed media personnel confirming the premeditated nature of the security breach.
Moreover, the disruption occurred on February 20 at Bharat Mandapam during an international event attended by dignitaries. Furthermore, police officials revealed that the aggressive protesters were immediately overpowered by security personnel at the venue. Additionally, several police personnel sustained injuries while attempting to control the situation and remove the demonstrators. Indeed, the incident has raised serious questions about security protocols at high-profile international events in the capital. Consequently, authorities have invoked multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to prosecute those involved in planning and executing the protest.
Premeditated Security Breach at International Event
Special Commissioner Devesh Chandra Srivastava emphasized during the press conference that the protest was not a spontaneous demonstration. Specifically, he stated that protesters made a premeditated attempt to breach the security cordon at the venue. Moreover, the breach occurred in the presence of dignitaries, delegates, and visitors attending the prestigious international summit. Furthermore, investigators found that aggressive individuals had planned their actions carefully to maximize disruption and media attention. Additionally, the timing and execution of the protest suggested coordination among multiple participants who had rehearsed their actions.
Indeed, police discovered evidence indicating detailed planning including procurement of printed materials and coordination of entry timing. Consequently, authorities concluded that this was a calculated attempt to embarrass the government during a high-profile event. Meanwhile, the investigation revealed communication patterns among suspects that confirmed their collaborative planning efforts before the incident. Therefore, police have classified this case as a serious conspiracy requiring thorough investigation and prosecution under relevant laws.
Details of the Controversial Protest Action
On February 20, a group of Indian Youth Congress workers executed their planned protest inside Hall No. 5 of Bharat Mandapam venue. Specifically, protesters removed their outer shirts to reveal T-shirts printed with slogans targeting the government and policies. Moreover, the slogans included “Compromised PM” and criticized the recently announced India-US interim trade deal between nations. Furthermore, the protesters had managed to enter the venue despite multiple layers of security screening and surveillance systems.
Additionally, their coordinated actions suggested they had conducted reconnaissance of the venue layout and security arrangements beforehand. Indeed, the bold nature of the demonstration indicated confidence among participants about successfully executing their disruptive plan. Consequently, security personnel immediately intervened and physically removed the protesters from the hall to prevent further disruption.
Meanwhile, some police officers sustained injuries during the confrontation while attempting to control and evacuate the demonstrators. Therefore, the incident prompted immediate review of security protocols and identification of potential gaps in screening procedures.
Legal Action and Sections Invoked
During the investigation process, Delhi Police invoked Sections 191(1) and 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against the accused. Specifically, these sections address rioting and related offences committed during unlawful assembly and public disturbances at events. Moreover, investigators gathered substantial evidence confirming that the offence was committed as part of a larger conspiracy. Furthermore, police examination of digital communications, financial transactions, and witness statements strengthened the conspiracy angle significantly.
Additionally, authorities believe multiple individuals collaborated in planning logistics, funding, and execution of the protest demonstration carefully. Indeed, the evidence collected includes mobile phone records, social media communications, and testimonies from security personnel present. Consequently, police are confident about establishing the conspiracy charges in court proceedings based on accumulated evidence.
Meanwhile, investigators continue examining whether any external elements or funding sources supported the protest organization and execution. Therefore, the case has been categorized as requiring comprehensive investigation beyond just prosecuting the physical participants alone.
Arrest of IYC National President
Police have named Indian Youth Congress national president Uday Bhanu Chib as the alleged mastermind behind the entire protest. Specifically, authorities believe Chib coordinated and directed the demonstration despite not being physically present at the venue. Moreover, Chib has been arrested along with several other Congress workers in connection with the conspiracy case. Furthermore, police claim evidence shows Chib’s involvement in planning meetings, resource allocation, and giving final approval for execution.
मोदी जब जब डरता है…
पुलिस को आगे करता है !!!@IYC के अध्यक्ष उदयभानु चिब को गिरफ़्तार करवाने वाला प्रधानमंत्री ‘कायर’ भी है और ‘compromised’ भी !!! pic.twitter.com/myKAkIXgE7— Dr. Ragini Nayak (@NayakRagini) February 24, 2026
Additionally, investigators are examining his communication records and financial transactions linked to organizing the protest demonstration successfully. Indeed, charging a national-level youth leader has intensified political tensions between the ruling party and Congress opposition. Consequently, the arrest has sparked debates about limits of legitimate political protest versus unlawful disruption of official events. Meanwhile, Congress leaders have condemned the arrest calling it politically motivated suppression of democratic dissent and opposition voices. Therefore, the case has acquired significant political dimensions beyond its immediate legal and security implications for authorities.
Defense Arguments and Legal Battle
Chib’s legal counsel, Advocate Sujoy Ghosh, strongly questioned the police action and charges against his client during proceedings. Specifically, Ghosh argued that the defense had not been provided with a copy of the FIR filed. Moreover, he contended in court that sending an opposition youth body president to custody over printed T-shirts. Furthermore, the defense lawyer stated that such action would make India “a laughing stock” in international opinion. Additionally, Ghosh emphasized that the whole world is watching how India treats legitimate political opposition and protest activities.
Indeed, he argued that arresting leaders for printed slogans sets dangerous precedent for democratic freedom of expression. Consequently, the defense team is preparing to challenge the charges and seek bail for all arrested individuals. Meanwhile, legal experts debate whether the police response was proportionate to the nature of the protest demonstration. Therefore, the case will test boundaries between maintaining security at official events and protecting democratic rights effectively.
