World

BRICS red carpet sparks anger in India’s capital

Al Jazeera · 2026-09-11

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: New Delhi is facing public discontent as extensive preparations for the upcoming BRICS summit have led to roadblocks, evictions, and heightened security measures, disrupting daily life for residents. • Why it matters: The government's focus on showcasing India's global standing through the summit has raised concerns about the impact on local communities, particularly vulnerable populations affected by evictions and restrictions. • What to watch next: As the summit date approaches, it will be important to monitor how the government addresses resident grievances and balances the needs of local citizens with the demands of hosting an international event.

**BRICS Red Carpet Sparks Anger in India’s Capital**

New Delhi, India – As the Indian capital prepares to host the upcoming BRICS summit, the government’s extensive arrangements have led to significant public discontent. While officials tout the event as a prestigious opportunity for India to showcase its role on the global stage, the measures taken to facilitate the summit have resulted in roadblocks, evictions, and various restrictions that have angered residents.

The BRICS summit, which brings together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is set to take place in New Delhi, and the Indian government is keen to present the city in its best light. However, the preparations have led to a series of disruptions that have affected daily life for many residents.

Local reports indicate that several major roads have been closed off in anticipation of the event, causing significant traffic congestion and frustration among commuters. Residents have expressed their concerns over the inconvenience caused by these closures, with some noting that the restrictions have made it difficult to navigate the city.

In addition to roadblocks, there have been reports of evictions in areas surrounding the summit venues. Authorities have reportedly cleared out vendors and informal settlements to ensure a clean and orderly environment for the visiting dignitaries. This has raised concerns among human rights advocates and local communities, who argue that such actions disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations.

The restrictions are not limited to physical barriers; there are also reports of heightened security measures throughout the city. While officials argue that these measures are necessary to ensure the safety of the summit participants, many residents feel that their freedoms are being curtailed. The increased presence of law enforcement has led to a tense atmosphere in certain neighborhoods, with some residents feeling uneasy about the changes.

Critics of the government's approach have taken to social media and public forums to voice their dissatisfaction. Many have called for a more balanced approach that prioritizes the needs and rights of local residents alongside the requirements of hosting an international summit. The sentiment among some citizens is that the government’s focus on the event has overshadowed the everyday challenges faced by the people of New Delhi.

Despite the backlash, government officials maintain that the BRICS summit is a crucial opportunity for India to strengthen its international ties and enhance its global standing. They emphasize that the preparations are intended to ensure a successful event that will benefit the country in the long run.

As the summit date approaches, it remains to be seen how the government will address the growing discontent among residents. The situation highlights the complexities of hosting international events in urban areas, where the need for security and order often clashes with the rights and needs of the local population.

In conclusion, while the BRICS summit presents an opportunity for India to showcase its diplomatic prowess, the accompanying disruptions have sparked significant anger among New Delhi’s residents. The government faces the challenge of balancing the demands of hosting an international event with the everyday realities of its citizens. As the city rolls out the red carpet for global leaders, the voices of its residents are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

Source: Al Jazeera
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