New Delhi, 24 February (H.S.): Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi condemned Delhi Police's arrest of Indian Youth Congress chief Uday Bhanu Chib following the party's semi-nude demonstration at the AI Summit as an assault on democratic rights.

Kharge told reporters the arrest stifles opposition amid youth unemployment woes and damaging US deals harming farmers. Congress fights for democracy and Constitution undeterred—this is condemned, he declared, vowing relentless public advocacy.

Gandhi's X post praised Chib's babbar sher comrades for boldly voicing national interest against PM: Peaceful protest is democratic tradition—voicing truth to power is patriotism, not crime. Party's official handle decried the move as unconstitutional, affirming protest rights.

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge admitted protest style could improve but noted BJP's similar tactics, questioning government's international event prowess amid the backlash.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar