Mumbai: Delhi Police have stepped up action in connection with the protest by Indian Youth Congress workers at Bharat Mandapam. Police sources said raids are being carried out at multiple locations across Delhi-NCR to trace protesters who fled the venue after the incident.
As per India TV sources, officials confirmed that four people have been arrested so far, while efforts are on to identify and detain others involved. More than 15 video clips are being analysed to establish the identity of those who took part in the protest. Police said several suspects have switched off their mobile phones to avoid tracking.
Four Youth Congress Workers Arrested
Earlier in the day, Delhi Police detained four workers associated with the Indian Youth Congress from the protest site. The accused are expected to be produced before the Patiala House Court. Police sources said the protest led to a scuffle, following which serious charges were registered.
Key Questions Under Police Investigation
Investigators are examining several aspects of the protest, including how the protesters entered the venue, where they were staying before the event, and when they arrived in Delhi. Police are also checking whether vehicles were used and who arranged them.
Mobile phones seized from the arrested accused are being examined to identify their contacts and communication before the protest. Another focus of the probe is the printing of protest T-shirts — where they were made and who funded them.
Case Registered Under Multiple Sections
A case has been registered at Tilak Marg Police Station under sections related to criminal conspiracy, assault on public servants, disobedience of public orders, unlawful assembly, and common intention. Police said the charges reflect the seriousness of the incident and the disruption caused at a high-security event.
Black Umbrella Plan Dropped, Say Police
Delhi Police sources revealed that the protesters initially planned to enter the venue carrying black umbrellas with printed stickers. However, fearing detection during security checks, the plan was dropped. Instead, the group wore jackets and sweaters over T-shirts carrying protest messages, which were later displayed inside the venue.
Larger Conspiracy Angle Being Probed
Police officials said the matter is being investigated as part of a larger conspiracy. Authorities are tracing the origin of the printed material and identifying individuals who may have planned or guided the protest.
Youth Congress Defends Protest
In a statement, the Indian Youth Congress said its workers were protesting against what it called a “compromised Prime Minister” and alleged that India’s identity had been weakened at the AI summit. The organisation claimed the protest was an expression of dissent.
BJP Slams Protest, Minister Calls for Restraint
The Bharatiya Janata Party criticised the protest, calling it irresponsible and damaging to India’s image. Delhi Police also initiated action against Youth Congress members who allegedly protested without shirts.
Additional Commissioner of Police Devesh Mahla said the incident took place around 12:30 pm. He added that the protesters had registered online for the summit and concealed the protest material under outer clothing before revealing it near Hall No. 5.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw urged political parties to keep national events above politics, stressing that the AI summit was an opportunity to showcase India’s innovation and global leadership.
