Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates did not deliver his speech at the ongoing AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on Thursday. Earlier his address was scheduled, but at the last moment he canceled it. Gates Foundation said that this decision was taken so that the entire focus of the conference remains on AI issues. However, the reason behind this is believed to be his old controversies and possible opposition related to Jeffrey Epstein.
Why the sudden change in the programme?
Bill Gates’ speech was to be held on 19 February 2026 at 11:50 am. Just before this, on Thursday morning he withdrew his name. Recently, some old documents related to Jeffrey Epstein have come to light, due to which Gates is in the news. Officials say that there was no pressure on them from the government, rather they themselves have taken this step so that the message of the conference is not affected by any kind of protest. Earlier he was in Mumbai, where fears of protest against him were raised.
Who will take charge in his place now?
After Bill Gates’s refusal, Gates Foundation was represented by Ankur Vora. He is the Chairman of the Foundation’s Africa and India office. The Foundation has made it clear that they will continue to help in health and development work in India. Big names like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, French President Emmanuel Macron, Mukesh Ambani and Sundar Pichai are included in this conference. The event is running from 16 to 20 February at Bharat Mandapam and tight security arrangements have been made for entry.
