Several leaders, including Congress’ Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge, on Saturday reacted to the controversy triggered by the Indian Youth Congress protest at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. With criticism pouring in from across the political spectrum, the Congress sought to shift focus to alleged irregularities at the event.Kharge said the manner of protest might not have been in the “right spirit”, but added that the ruling dispensation should instead be questioned over the alleged display of Chinese products at the summit. Referring to a controversy involving a robotic dog showcased by a private university, he said the government should have been embarrassed if foreign-made products were presented as indigenous innovations.He also described the summit as “chaotic”, stating that the focus appeared to be on the PM rather than innovators, job creators and industry leaders.The protest, which involved Youth Congress members going semi-nude at the high-profile event held at Bharat Mandapam, has triggered sharp political reactions, with several Opposition leaders also expressing disapproval of the method adopted.Terming the protest “disgraceful and reprehensible”, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said such conduct at an international event could harm India’s image. She said maintaining the country’s dignity on a global platform should be a priority.YSR Congress Party chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said the incident brought “shame” and questioned the direction of political discourse, adding that differences should not lead to actions that demean the country.Telugu Desam Party leader Nara Lokesh said he was shocked by the protest. He said turning such an event into a political spectacle diminishes the country’s standing.Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also criticised the protest. In a video, circulating on social media, he said creating a ruckus in front of international delegates was not appropriate and that political battles should remain internal matters.The BJP stepped up its attack on the Congress, holding protests in the national capital and other cities. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva accused Rahul Gandhi of lowering political standards and said the protest targeted the nation rather than the government. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari said people would not forgive the Congress, noting that delegates from over 80 countries had attended the summit and appreciated India’s efforts.The controversy also led to clashes between Congress and BJP workers in Indore and Puducherry, with reports of stone-pelting prompting police intervention. Four Youth Congress workers have been arrested in connection with the protest.The Indian Youth Congress responded to criticism by targeting Jagan Mohan Reddy, referring to ongoing investigations against him and invoking the legacy of his father, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy.Farmer bodies and community organisations, including the Bharatiya Kisan Union and Bharatiya Krishak Samaj, also condemned the protest, stating that political differences should be raised through institutional forums rather than at international events.