New Delhi: The Indian National Congress party found itself publicly divided over the BRICS Summit after two of its senior leaders offered sharply contrasting assessments of the upcoming conference.
Former Union minister P. Chidambaram, speaking first, raised pointed questions about the cost-benefit ratio of hosting such large international gatherings. He asked what concrete gains India had derived from previously held BRICS summits on Indian soil, suggesting that the party should critically evaluate whether the logistical outlay and security arrangements translate into real economic or strategic dividends for the country.
Just a day later, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor pushed back against that scepticism, calling the summit a clear diplomatic triumph for India. He argued that the fact that leaders from eleven nations are willing to gather under one roof in New Delhi is a testament to India's growing stature and its ability to bring diverse countries together on a shared platform. For Tharoor, the very act of hosting is proof that India remains a central player in shaping global south cooperation and multilateral dialogue.
The 18th BRICS Summit is scheduled to take place on September 12 and 13 at India Mandapam in New Delhi. The gathering will see heads of state or government from the BRICS bloc — Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly expanded members — along with invited partner nations.
Meanwhile, authorities have moved into high gear for the event. Special Commissioner of Delhi Police Manish Kumar Agrawal announced that approximately 15,000 Delhi Police personnel, supported by 200 companies of paramilitary forces, have been deployed to ensure round-the-clock security. Key sites including Indira Gandhi International Airport, India Mandapam, designated hotels, and all routes used by foreign delegations will see heightened security cover.
Traffic advisories have also been issued. From September 10 to 14, commuters can expect significant disruptions as movement restrictions may be imposed on several roads to facilitate the passage of VIP convoys. The police have urged residents and travellers to plan alternative routes and allow extra time during the peak summit days.
The internal debate within Congress comes at a time when India is keen to project itself as a leading voice of the Global South while managing the practical challenges of hosting a high-profile multilateral event in the national capital.
