Bill Gates Skips AI Summit Amid Epstein File Controversy

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation reversed its earlier announcement about Bill Gates delivering a keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, confirming that he would no longer attend the event. The decision came just a day after the foundation had publicly stated that Gates would speak at the summit, highlighting a sudden change in plans.

Officials from the foundation explained that the decision followed “careful consideration” and aimed to ensure that the summit’s discussions remain focused on its primary agenda and priorities related to artificial intelligence and global development. Gates had been scheduled to address participants at Bharat Mandapam, where policymakers, technology leaders, and researchers gathered to discuss the future of responsible AI and innovation.

The development comes at a time when Gates faces renewed public scrutiny over alleged links referenced in documents connected to the Epstein case. Although the foundation did not elaborate further on the reasons behind the withdrawal, the timing of the announcement drew attention because of the ongoing controversy surrounding those allegations.

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Despite Gates stepping back from the keynote session, the foundation confirmed that it would continue to participate in the summit. It announced that Ankur Vora, President of its Africa and India offices, would represent the organisation and deliver remarks later in the day.

Gates Debate as Leaders Gather for AI Summit Meet

Officials in Andhra Pradesh welcomed Bill Gates at the airport, where Nara Lokesh and cabinet members received him. Soon after, social media users criticised Gates over alleged links to Jeffrey Epstein, allegations he has firmly rejected as completely false. Meanwhile, organisers scheduled major summit speeches from leaders including Narendra Modi, Emmanuel Macron and António Guterres, along with technology and business figures such as Sam Altman and Mukesh Ambani.

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