Delhi Police on Saturday told a court that the shirtless protest staged by members of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) during the AI Summit was part of a larger conspiracy aimed at defaming India on an international platform.
The police made the submission while seeking five days’ custody of four arrested individuals at Patiala House Court.
Arrests After Protest at Bharat Mandapam
The four accused — Krishna Hari, Kundan Yadav, Ajay Kumar and Narasimha Yadav — were arrested following a demonstration at Bharat Mandapam during the AI Impact Summit.
According to police, the protesters walked inside the exhibition hall holding T-shirts with slogans against the government and the India-US trade deal. Security personnel subsequently escorted them out of the venue.
Delhi Police alleged in court that the protest resembled demonstrations previously seen in Nepal and was designed to create embarrassment in the presence of international delegates.
Police Allegations in Court
Seeking custody, the prosecution argued that:
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Anti-national slogans were raised during the event.
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Three police personnel were injured during the incident.
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The accused coordinated from different locations and printed T-shirts for the protest.
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Custodial interrogation is necessary to identify other individuals who allegedly fled the scene.
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Mobile phones must be recovered to determine whether any funding was involved.
Investigators told the court that the matter involves a “deep conspiracy” and requires further questioning.
Defence Argues Peaceful Protest
The defence counsel contested the police claims, stating that the protest was peaceful and did not involve violence.
The lawyer argued that:
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The accused were exercising their democratic right to protest.
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No video evidence shows violence during the demonstration.
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The offences cited carry a maximum punishment of up to seven years.
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The FIR is politically motivated.
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The accused are educated individuals with professional careers.
The defence also filed bail applications, contending that political dissent should not be criminalised.
Court to Decide on Custody Plea
The court questioned the police on why five days of custody were required. In response, the investigating officer reiterated the need to identify additional suspects and thoroughly examine digital evidence.
The matter remains under judicial consideration.
