The semi-naked protest staged by the Youth Congress at the AI Summit has emerged as a political headache, straining relations between the Congress and its INDIA Bloc allies. Initially, several allies had distanced themselves from the action. Now, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pointed criticism, senior leaders of the Congress are also expressing discontent over the protest.
Former Union Minister and Congress veteran Margaret Alva said maintaining discipline and responsibility is essential when protesting international events. “The venue and manner of protest matter, especially when the nation’s image is involved,” she said.
Another senior Congress leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted that while the opposition has every right to raise dissent, the summit was not the appropriate forum for it.
The reaction from allies has been swift and largely critical. Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, along with Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal, both consistent supporters of the government in Parliament, publicly distanced themselves. Akhilesh Yadav reiterated that while he sees the BJP as spreading misinformation, he does not endorse protests that embarrass India on a global stage.
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Manoj Jha of the RJD echoed this view, stating that protests at international platforms should be avoided, emphasizing the need to respect both protocol and public perception.
Statements from Shiv Sena’s Uddhav Thackeray faction reinforced the sentiment. Arvind Sawant said political protests should consider venue and timing, while Aditya Thackeray called the AI Summit a professional platform unsuitable for political demonstrations. West Bengal IT Minister Babul Supriyo added on social media that such protests risk sending a negative signal about India’s priorities to the world, urging all parties to exercise responsibility.
Within the Congress, strategists are reviewing the fallout. Party leadership has clarified that the Youth Congress’s action must be defended, yet internal criticism signal the delicate balance the party must maintain to manage allies’ expectations.
Analysts say the episode highlights the challenges the Congress faces in maintaining unity while asserting its stance on sensitive issues such as the India-US trade deal and broader foreign policy concerns.
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