Congress Rebuts PM's Criticism, Defends Women MPs' Protest

Congress defends protest by women MPs, accusing PM of avoiding accountability.

Photo by Ravi Sharma

The shirtless protest by Indian Youth Congress (IYC) workers at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 has sparked a political controversy, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling it an act of "dirty and naked politics". The IYC workers were protesting against what they termed a "compromised Prime Minister" and the India-US trade deal. Four protesters have been arrested and sent to five-day police remand after the Patiala House Court rejected their bail plea, observing that national interest and the country's international image cannot be compromised.

Congress defended the protest, with spokesperson Pawan Khera arguing that it was meant to be visible and reflected the anger of the youth. However, INDIA bloc ally Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party called the protest inappropriate, stating that it brought shame to the country in front of foreign delegates. TMC's Babul Supriyo also opposed the protest, while AIMIM's Aseem Waqar supported it, comparing it to Mahatma Gandhi's rebellion against British rule.

The India-US trade deal is at the heart of the controversy, with the opposition alleging that it undermines the interests of Indian farmers. Uncertainty looms over the deal after the US Supreme Court rejected President Donald Trump's global tariffs, leading to Trump responding with a 15% tariff. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned why India did not wait for the SCOTUS decision before agreeing to the trade deal framework.

This incident highlights the intersection of domestic politics and international events, raising questions about the appropriateness of protest tactics on global platforms. It is relevant for UPSC exams, particularly in the Polity & Governance and International Relations sections (GS Paper 2).

Key Facts

Congress party responded to PM Modi's criticism of women MPs' protest.

Women MPs were protesting because Rahul Gandhi was not allowed to speak.

Manickam Tagore accused the Prime Minister of being afraid to come to the House.

Women MPs belonged to Dalit and backward classes and were protesting for a cause.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 2: Polity and Governance - Fundamental Rights, Freedom of Speech and Expression, Limitations on Rights

GS Paper 2: International Relations - Bilateral Relations, Trade Agreements, Diplomatic Protocol

GS Paper 3: Economy - Impact of Trade Agreements on Agriculture and Industry, Make in India Initiative

In Simple Words

Basically, some women MPs protested because their fellow MP wasn't allowed to speak in Parliament. They felt it was unfair. It's like when someone's mic is cut off during a debate.

India Angle

In India, this connects to how different groups try to make their voices heard in the government. It shows how important it is for everyone, including those from marginalized communities, to have a chance to speak up.

For Instance

Think of it like a Resident Welfare Association meeting where some members aren't allowed to voice their concerns. Others might protest on their behalf to ensure everyone gets a fair hearing.

It matters because it shows how our representatives fight for what they believe is right, and how important it is for all voices to be heard in a democracy.

Every voice deserves a chance to be heard, even in Parliament.

The Congress party responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's criticism of the protest by women MPs, stating that they were protesting because Rahul Gandhi was not allowed to speak during the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address. Congress Whip Manickam Tagore accused the Prime Minister of being afraid to come to the House and stated that the women MPs, belonging to Dalit and backward classes, were protesting for a cause. Tagore also accused the Prime Minister of compromising the interests of farmers, MSMEs, and the textile industry through the India-U.S.

trade agreement. Former IYC chief Srinivas B.V. defended the IYC's "shirtless protests" and accused the Prime Minister of playing the "victim card".

Expert Analysis

The recent shirtless protest at the India AI Impact Summit brings to the forefront several key concepts related to political expression, international relations, and trade agreements. Understanding these concepts is crucial to grasping the full implications of the event.

One such concept is the Right to Protest, a fundamental aspect of democratic societies. While not explicitly mentioned as a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution, it is derived from the freedoms of speech and expression (Article 19(1)(a)) and assembly (Article 19(1)(b)). However, these freedoms are subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence. The IYC's protest, while intended to express dissent, was criticized for potentially harming India's image on an international platform, raising questions about the limits of permissible protest.

Another key concept is Diplomatic Protocol, which refers to the established norms and procedures governing interactions between states and international actors. These protocols aim to ensure smooth and respectful relations, particularly during international events like the AI Summit attended by global leaders and dignitaries. The shirtless protest was viewed by some as a breach of diplomatic protocol, potentially undermining the seriousness of the event and embarrassing the host country. Adhering to diplomatic protocol is generally seen as essential for maintaining positive international relations and fostering cooperation on various global issues.

The India-US Trade Deal, the target of the IYC's protest, is another crucial concept. Trade agreements are formal pacts between countries to reduce barriers to trade, such as tariffs and quotas, and promote economic cooperation. The opposition's criticism of the India-US trade deal centers on the concern that it may negatively impact Indian farmers and other domestic industries. The US Supreme Court's rejection of President Trump's global tariffs and his subsequent imposition of a 15% tariff add further uncertainty to the future of the deal. Understanding the potential economic and social consequences of trade agreements is essential for informed policy debates and decision-making.

For UPSC aspirants, it is important to understand the constitutional provisions related to freedom of speech and expression, the limitations on these freedoms, and the significance of diplomatic protocol in international relations. Additionally, a thorough understanding of trade agreements, their potential benefits and drawbacks, and their impact on various sectors of the economy is crucial for both prelims and mains exams.

More Information

Background

The Right to Protest in India is not absolute and is subject to reasonable restrictions as enshrined in Article 19 of the Constitution. These restrictions are imposed in the interest of public order, decency, morality, and the sovereignty and integrity of India. The judiciary has often been called upon to interpret the scope and limitations of this right, balancing it with other fundamental rights and societal interests. India's trade relations with the United States have evolved significantly over the past few decades. Both countries have engaged in bilateral trade agreements and negotiations aimed at reducing trade barriers and promoting economic cooperation. However, disagreements over issues such as tariffs, intellectual property rights, and market access have occasionally strained the relationship. The current controversy surrounding the India-US trade deal reflects ongoing debates about the potential impacts of such agreements on various sectors of the Indian economy, particularly agriculture. The India-US Trade Policy Forum is a key mechanism for addressing trade-related issues and fostering dialogue between the two countries. Established in 2005, the forum provides a platform for discussing and resolving trade disputes, promoting investment, and enhancing economic cooperation. The ongoing negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement between India and the US aim to further strengthen the economic partnership and address long-standing trade barriers.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny of trade agreements and their impact on domestic industries, particularly agriculture. Farmer protests against the three farm laws in 2020-2021 highlighted concerns about the potential displacement of farmers and the erosion of their livelihoods due to market-driven policies. These protests have influenced the political discourse surrounding trade agreements and have led to calls for greater protection of farmers' interests. The government has been actively promoting the Make in India initiative to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. This initiative aims to create a more self-reliant economy and enhance India's competitiveness in the global market. However, concerns remain about the potential impact of trade agreements on domestic industries and the need to ensure a level playing field for Indian manufacturers. Looking ahead, the future of India-US trade relations will depend on the ability of both countries to address outstanding trade issues and find common ground on key areas of economic cooperation. The ongoing negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement provide an opportunity to strengthen the economic partnership and promote mutually beneficial trade flows. However, it is crucial to ensure that any trade agreement takes into account the interests of all stakeholders, including farmers, manufacturers, and consumers.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Right to Protest in India: 1. It is explicitly mentioned as a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution. 2. It is derived from the freedoms of speech and expression and assembly. 3. It is subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order and morality. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The Right to Protest is not explicitly mentioned as a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution. It is derived from Article 19(1)(a) and Article 19(1)(b). Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Right to Protest is derived from the freedoms of speech and expression (Article 19(1)(a)) and assembly (Article 19(1)(b)). Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Right to Protest is subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order, decency, morality, and the sovereignty and integrity of India.

2. Which of the following statements best describes the term 'Diplomatic Protocol'? A) A set of international laws governing trade relations between countries. B) Established norms and procedures governing interactions between states and international actors. C) A military alliance between two or more countries for mutual defense. D) A formal agreement between countries to reduce barriers to trade.

Show Answer

Answer: B

Diplomatic Protocol refers to the established norms and procedures governing interactions between states and international actors. These protocols aim to ensure smooth and respectful relations, particularly during international events.

3. The India-US Trade Policy Forum, established in 2005, primarily aims to: A) Promote military cooperation between India and the US. B) Address trade-related issues and foster dialogue between India and the US. C) Facilitate cultural exchange programs between India and the US. D) Coordinate joint efforts to combat terrorism.

Show Answer

Answer: B

The India-US Trade Policy Forum, established in 2005, primarily aims to address trade-related issues and foster dialogue between India and the US. It provides a platform for discussing and resolving trade disputes, promoting investment, and enhancing economic cooperation.