Shimla: BJP state media in-charge and MLA Randhir Sharma on Friday alleged that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was the “mastermind” behind the controversy surrounding the AI Impact Summit 2026 and demanded a high-level central probe into the matter.
Addressing a press conference here, Sharma termed the semi-nude protest allegedly carried out by Youth Congress workers on February 20 during the summit in New Delhi as “irresponsible” and said it tarnished the nation’s image at an international platform attended by representatives from over 100 countries. He said the summit was hosted by the Government of India and was meant to showcase India’s technological leadership globally.
The BJP leader accused the state government of misusing Assembly procedures for political purposes. Referring to the recent Budget Session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, he claimed that instead of taking up the customary Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address, the government prioritised a resolution on the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) issue. He alleged that the matter was debated for three days before the House was adjourned abruptly.
Sharma further alleged that individuals involved in the protest were accommodated at Himachal Sadan in Delhi and claimed that room bookings were made through the Chief Minister’s Office. He said this aspect warranted an independent investigation.
He also raised questions over the handling of the case by the state police, alleging that when Delhi Police sought to take the accused on transit remand, the Himachal Police obstructed them and registered an FIR against Delhi Police officials. He termed the episode “serious” and said it raised constitutional concerns.
Accusing the state government of attempting to shield those involved, Sharma demanded a probe by a central agency into the entire episode, including the alleged role of the Chief Minister’s Office.
The state government has not issued an immediate response to the allegations.
