Bengaluru-based AI startup founder Dhananjay Yadav, co-founder and CEO of NeoSapien, announced that wearable AI devices reported stolen from his stall at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi have been recovered within 24 hours after a police investigation.
Yadav had earlier alleged that the devices went missing from inside what he described as a “high-security zone” when exhibitors were asked to vacate the exhibition halls ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit.
Delhi Police have registered an FIR and arrested two men in connection with the incident, while the founder expressed gratitude for the swift response amid concerns over event security and management.
Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw apologised to organisers, exhibitors and visitors for the inconvenience caused on the opening day of the India AI Impact Summit 2026.
However, this is not a single claim that went viral on social media, many other reactions include the management of the Summit and the chaos inside. In an Instagram video, @mark.it.kween claimed that internet facilities were unavailable inside the summit and many others questioned the hurdles with demonstrating the tech-based work.
Devices Found after Police Action; Two Arrested
Police formalised a theft FIR after Yadav’s complaint and launched an immediate probe. According to authorities, two contractual workers present at the summit site were arrested in connection with the disappearance of the wearable devices.
The suspects reportedly mistook the devices for simple pendrives and allegedly took them during the hours when the exhibition halls were closed for security preparations.
Delhi Police have since recovered the devices, prompting praise from Yadav. In a post on X, he said: “Just wanted to update everyone, our devices have been recovered. Huge thanks to Delhi Police for the super fast response and support. Truly grateful…”
Founder’s Ordeal and Summit Chaos
Yadav’s initial accusation highlighted confusion and coordination lapses among security personnel at the summit held at Bharat Mandapam.
He claimed exhibitors were told to vacate booths around midday, ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit, and were assured that equipment left behind would be safe. Gates reportedly remained closed for about six hours, and upon returning, Yadav’s team found several devices missing despite being in a “high-security zone”.
The claim triggered public debate around security at major events and the challenges faced by smaller innovators participating in high-profile government-driven initiatives.
According to a report by Mint, the AI Impact Summit 2026 in Delhi drew criticism on social media over significant logistical shortcomings. Attendees complained about overcrowded halls and long queues that made it difficult to navigate the venue.
Many also expressed frustration over confusion and poor communication, with one widely shared post describing the situation as “No water. No clarity.” Adding to the irony, several visitors reported patchy mobile internet connectivity at the technology-focused event.
Some users further pointed out a disconnect between the hype surrounding the summit and the actual experience on the ground, saying there was little tangible AI on display for the average visitor beyond posters and branding.
Official Response
Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw apologised to organisers, exhibitors and visitors for the inconvenience caused on the opening day of the India AI Impact Summit 2026.
He said, “If anybody has faced any problems yesterday, my apologies for that,” acknowledging the logistical issues and long queues reported at the venue. He stated that the government is open-minded and receptive to feedback, and announced that a “war room” had been set up to address problems in real time.
Vaishnaw added that teams were working day and night to ensure smoother arrangements and urged attendees to report any issues so they could be resolved promptly.
What is AI Summit 2026
The AI Impact Summit 2026 is a five-day international conference on artificial intelligence being held from February 16–20, 2026 in New Delhi, India, bringing together world leaders, top tech executives, policymakers and researchers to discuss AI’s global development, governance, and societal impact.
It is the first major summit of its kind in the Global South, aiming to shape cooperation on AI, promote inclusive growth, and showcase innovation through a large expo and expert sessions.
The event hosts hundreds of exhibitors, ministers, and heads of state, reflecting India’s ambition to play a central role in global AI dialogue and adoption.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The incidents at the summit underscore the dual challenges in India’s innovation ecosystem: security and trust. As India seeks to present itself as a global AI hub, ensuring that startups are protected and respected must be part of that narrative – beyond optics and large-scale gatherings.
