The Congress on Thursday slammed the government over police action against Indian Youth Congress (IYC) members involved in the “shirtless protest” at the AI Impact Summit, calling it an “unfair misuse and misapplication” of law.
Senior leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the protest was peaceful, without violence or criminal intent, and criticized the application of multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including 121, 132, 195, 221, 223, 153A, and 197, as wholly inapplicable.
He highlighted that Bharat Mandapam is a public space, and demanding accountability from the government cannot be equated with terrorism or anti-national activity.
Singhvi also rejected charges of conspiracy and obstruction, saying the government was sensationalizing and criminalizing a democratic protest.
The remarks came after a tense standoff between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh police over the arrests of three IYC activists, including president Uday Bhanu Chib and former national spokesperson Bhudev Sharma.
The Congress said such actions elevate the youth’s cause and expressed confidence that the judiciary will uphold democratic rights.
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