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Senior Congress leader Margaret Alva has expressed strong reservations over a recent “topless” protest staged during an international Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit, stating that political demonstrations must maintain dignity, especially at events attended by global delegates.
The protest, reportedly carried out by a Youth Congress leader during the high-profile AI gathering, drew widespread attention and sparked debate over the appropriateness of such demonstrations at international forums. The summit, which brought together policymakers, technology experts, and industry leaders from multiple countries, was aimed at discussing the future of artificial intelligence, innovation policy, and digital governance.
Reacting to the incident, Alva emphasized that while dissent and protest are integral to a democratic system, the manner and venue of expression matter significantly. “There has to be dignity at international events,” she said, adding that India’s image on the global stage should not be compromised by acts that may be viewed as disruptive or inappropriate.
According to party sources, the protest was intended to highlight concerns related to governance and transparency. However, critics argued that the dramatic method overshadowed the substantive issues the demonstrators sought to raise.
Political observers noted that the controversy has triggered mixed reactions within opposition circles. While some defended the right to protest as a form of political expression, others echoed Alva’s call for restraint and decorum, particularly at international platforms where diplomatic and technological collaborations are at stake.
The ruling party also condemned the protest, calling it an embarrassment at a forum meant to showcase India’s technological ambitions and leadership in the AI sector.
As discussions continue, the episode has reignited a broader conversation about the balance between political activism and national representation, especially in high-visibility global events.
