Siddharth Avdhoot Secures Bail After Controversial Protest Incident

Siddharth Avdhoot has been granted bail by a Delhi court after his involvement in a shirtless protest during the AI Impact Summit. Following nine days in police custody, Avdhoot's release was ordered after his defense argued that his role was less significant compared to other accused individuals. The court set bail at Rs 50,000, despite opposition from the prosecution, which cited serious allegations against him. The case raises important questions about the nature of protests and their potential impact on national reputation during high-profile events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 7, 2026, 17:07 IST

Court Grants Bail to Siddharth Avdhoot

New Delhi: A court in Patiala House, Delhi, has ordered the release of Siddharth Avdhoot, who was involved in a shirtless protest during the AI Impact Summit. His release from custody was confirmed on Saturday.

Avdhoot had been in police custody for nine days before being granted bail on March 5. He was apprehended by Delhi Police at a resort in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, in relation to the protest.

The authorities allege that Avdhoot was instrumental in the protest, reportedly designing and organizing the printing of the T-shirts worn by the participants.

During the court proceedings, the police requested a 14-day judicial custody for Avdhoot. However, Duty Magistrate Charan Salwan granted him bail after reviewing arguments from both parties.

The court set bail at Rs 50,000, requiring a surety bond of the same amount.

Avdhoot's legal team, including advocates Nandita Rao, Roopesh Singh Bhadauria, Chitwan Godara, Sumit Rawat, and Rishabh, argued for his release, stating that his involvement was not as severe as that of other accused individuals.

They highlighted that at least ten others were implicated, some with more significant roles than Avdhoot.

The defense contended that he should be granted bail based on parity, as other co-accused had already received bail.

The prosecution, represented by Additional Public Prosecutor Atul Shrivastava, opposed the bail request, citing a previous rejection of Avdhoot's bail application.

The defense countered, asserting that circumstances had changed, with several co-accused already released and the investigation into Avdhoot concluded.

They emphasized that Avdhoot posed no flight risk, being a resident of Delhi with strong community ties.

Despite the defense's arguments, the prosecution maintained that serious allegations remained against Avdhoot.

The police claimed he had a significant role in organizing the protest, including a reconnaissance visit to Bharat Mandapam on February 17, where he allegedly identified the protest location near the Google stall.

The prosecution argued that the protest was orchestrated in a way that could harm the nation's international standing, coinciding with a major global event.

The defense refuted these claims, stating that the charges against Avdhoot primarily revolved around the T-shirt printing.

They noted that the alleged offenses carry a maximum penalty of five years, justifying the request for bail.

After considering the detailed arguments from both sides, the court ultimately granted bail to Siddharth Avdhoot, facilitating his release from custody.