AI Tools Allegedly Used by Protesters During July 20 Clashes in New Delhi
Investigation into Protest Clashes
Delhi Police detain protesters attempting to push through security barricades in a bid to reach Jantar Mantar to join the CJP's march on July 20. (Photo: PTI)
New Delhi, July 30: The investigation into the clashes that occurred on July 20 during the "Sansad Chalo" protest organized by the CJP has uncovered that some demonstrators might have utilized artificial intelligence (AI) tools to strategize against police crowd-control tactics.
As per a police insider, the ongoing inquiry suggests that certain participants may have accessed generative AI platforms to gather information on mitigating the effects of tear gas and preparing for potential confrontations with law enforcement.
"The investigation employs various methods. We suspect that some protesters utilized AI tools or generative AI platforms to find immediate solutions for reducing tear gas effects, such as using wet jute bags, and to equip themselves with hard hats, masks, and goggles," the source informed a news agency on Thursday.
However, the police have not revealed the specific AI platforms that were allegedly accessed, nor have they confirmed whether any digital devices have been forensically analyzed to verify these searches.
Investigators are also looking into the alleged distribution of protective gear, including hard hats and face masks, among protesters prior to and during the demonstration.
The source indicated that these items might have been intended to help participants endure police actions amid the unrest.
The protest on July 20 saw violent confrontations between demonstrators and security forces at various locations, including Parliament Street, Connaught Place, and Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, as protesters reportedly attempted to breach police barricades.
Authorities reported that over 200 police personnel were injured during the clashes, alongside more than 65 protesters. Additionally, more than 15 vehicles, including those belonging to the police, were damaged amid the turmoil.
The source noted that investigators have identified over 2,800 individuals with prior criminal records who were present at the protest. Their involvement and roles are currently under scrutiny as part of the extensive investigation into the violence.
Police stated that multiple teams are reviewing video footage, social media posts, electronic evidence, and other materials collected during the investigation to reconstruct the events and identify those allegedly involved in orchestrating or participating in violent acts.