Tue Feb 24 16:09:43 UTC 2026: # Delhi Police Intensifies Probe into AI Summit Protest, Transfers Case to Crime Branch

The Story:
The Delhi Police has escalated its investigation into the protest that disrupted the recent Indian AI Impact Summit, transferring the case to the Inter-State Cell of the Crime Branch. This move aims to broaden the investigation beyond Delhi, focusing on the alleged planning and coordination that involved printing T-shirts and posters, procuring umbrellas, and identifying all individuals involved. Eight people, including Indian Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib, have already been arrested.

Police suspect a deleted WhatsApp group was central to the planning, and are working to retrieve deleted chats, locate the printing press used for protest materials, and identify co-conspirators. The incident involved a security breach on February 20, with protesters attempting to enter the summit premises with black umbrellas.

Key Points:

  • Special Investigation Team (SIT) case transferred to the Inter-State Cell of the Crime Branch.
  • Eight arrests made, including Indian Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib.
  • Investigation focuses on the planning and coordination behind the protest.
  • Police suspect a deleted WhatsApp group was used for coordination.
  • Protest involved an attempted security breach at the Indian AI Impact Summit on February 20.
  • Sections 191A (rioting) and 192 (wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause a riot) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita were invoked.

Critical Analysis:
The transfer of the case to the Crime Branch suggests the Delhi Police believe the protest was not a spontaneous act but a coordinated effort that spanned across state lines. The focus on uncovering the “deeper conspiracy” indicates a suspicion of external influence or support for the protesters, potentially involving individuals or organizations beyond the immediate participants. The invocation of sections related to rioting and provocation underscores the seriousness with which the police are treating the incident.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Delhi Police are treating the AI Summit protest as a serious, pre-planned event.
  • The involvement of the Indian Youth Congress president highlights the potential political dimensions of the protest.
  • The investigation’s focus on digital communication and material procurement suggests a meticulous approach to uncovering the full extent of the conspiracy.
  • Protests are happening concurrently at other places in India at the same time, namely, Tue Feb 24 16:00:25 UTC 2026, Tue Feb 24 15:38:22 UTC 2026, Tue Feb 24 14:47:46 UTC 2026

Impact Analysis:

The intensified investigation and potential uncovering of a broader conspiracy could have significant political ramifications. If links to specific political parties or organizations are established, it could lead to further political tensions and potentially influence public perception of the AI Summit and related policies. The incident may also lead to increased security measures at future events, particularly those involving technology and government initiatives. The potential for increased surveillance and restrictions on public assembly could also impact civil liberties.

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