Jaipur (Rajasthan), February 21, 2026:
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma criticised the Congress party for its conduct at the India AI Impact Summit 2026. He described the protest as “highly unfortunate and shameful.” He said the incident damaged India’s image on a global platform.
On Friday, Sharma issued a public statement. He said the world is recognising India’s rapid technological growth. Global leaders are appreciating the country’s innovation and digital progress. Therefore, he argued, political protests at such events send the wrong signal internationally.
CM Sharma Targets Congress
According to Sharma, foreign delegates and investors attended the summit in large numbers. Leading technology experts from several nations also participated. They discussed India’s global credibility and leadership in artificial intelligence.
However, the Chief Minister accused Congress of trying to defame the country during the summit. He claimed the party placed political interests above national interest. In his view, such actions harm India’s global standing.
Referring to earlier controversies, Sharma said Congress created confusion over trade agreements. He also alleged that party leaders questioned the valour of soldiers during the Galwan incident. He argued that these actions reflected a pattern of political behaviour.
Call for Public Apology
Emphasising national unity, Sharma said India’s prestige belongs to 1.4 billion citizens. No political party owns that identity. He insisted that leaders must protect the nation’s reputation at international forums.
The Chief Minister urged Congress leaders to issue a public apology. He added that citizens will not support what he called negative and opportunistic politics.
BJP Leaders React
Meanwhile, several Bharatiya Janata Party leaders condemned the protest at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Former Union Minister Smriti Irani strongly criticised the disruption.
She said parties without strong ideas often rely on theatrics. She accused Congress of turning a global summit into a political stage.
Youth Congress Protest and Police Action
Earlier in the day, Delhi Police detained India Youth Congress National Coordinator Narsimha during the protest. Officers took action around 12:30 pm at Bharat Mandapam.
In its statement, the Indian Youth Congress said it organised the protest against what it termed a “compromised Prime Minister.” The group claimed it wanted to raise concerns at the AI Summit.
Additional Commissioner of Police Devesh Mahla confirmed the incident. He said the protestors had registered online for the summit. Police have now initiated legal proceedings against certain Youth Congress members.
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 continues to host policymakers, investors, and industry leaders. Discussions focus on artificial intelligence and India’s expanding global role.
