Congress paradox: Shashi Tharoor praises AI Summit, youth leaders protest on spot
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The AI Impact Summit in New Delhi recently witnessed a surprising turn of events as Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised the event's organization and global reach, while Youth Congress members disrupted proceedings with a shirtless protest against the India-US trade deal. The summit, attended by international leaders and industry professionals, was briefly halted on its final day when protesters removed their shirts and chanted slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Security personnel intervened to maintain order.
Tharoor, who had earlier commended the summit's execution despite minor hiccups, highlighted the event's significance in bringing together world leaders to discuss AI's societal impact. He also defended the government's Rafale deal, emphasizing its importance for India's defense self-reliance and national security. Tharoor's stance reflects his occasional divergence from party positions, as seen previously during diplomatic efforts post the Pahalgam attack.
The protest underscores the ongoing tensions within the Congress over policy decisions like the India-US trade agreement. While Tharoor supports such measures for strategic reasons, younger members are vocal in their opposition. This divide highlights internal struggles and broader debates about India's foreign relations and economic policies. The incident also raises questions about balancing political dissent with the need to maintain order during high-profile international events.
The summit itself serves as a critical platform for India's growing role in AI development. Tharoor noted the attendance of global leaders and the potential for AI to drive societal progress, aligning with India's vision of an integrated and impactful approach to technology. Despite the disruption, the event reaffirms India's position as a key player in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
This Congress paradox—praise for international collaboration from senior leaders versus dissent from younger members—reflects deeper political dynamics and challenges in contemporary India. As AI becomes increasingly central to global economic and strategic priorities, such events highlight both opportunities and potential obstacles in India's pursuit of technological leadership and diplomatic engagement.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026