During the 'AI India Summit 2026' held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, a protest led by Youth Congress workers, who appeared shirtless, sparked a significant backlash from various political parties. This incident, which occurred on the fifth day of the summit, has ignited discussions and controversies surrounding the appropriateness of the protest methods used. Many politicians have come forward to express their sentiments about the protest, reflecting on its implications for the nation's image.

Mayawati, the leader of the Bahujan Samaj Party and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, publicly condemned the actions of the Youth Congress, labeling the manner of protest as highly inappropriate and shameful. On the social media platform X, she remarked that the AI Impact Summit was an internationally significant event, attended by important figures from both India and abroad. She emphasized that displaying such behavior, particularly involving semi-nude protests dominated by Congress youth members, was harmful to the dignity and image of the country, insinuating it was a matter of national pride.

The incident has prompted a broader conversation about the responsibility of political parties and their representatives during significant public events. Critics argue that protests should maintain decorum, especially in scenarios where the country’s reputation is at stake. The mixed reactions from various political factions highlight the polarization surrounding responses to modern protest methods in India's political landscape, and how these tactics align with the public's expectations of decorum and respect during major international gatherings.