Bill Gates skips AI Impact Summit amid public scrutiny over Epstein ties

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has opted out of attending the AI Impact Summit in India, a decision he made independently, according to an official from the Ministry of Information Technology. This withdrawal comes amidst heightened public scrutiny regarding his past connections with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Gates has faced increasing criticism over these associations, which have raised questions about his philanthropic efforts and influence in the tech sector. The Indian government clarified that there was no external pressure prompting Gates' decision to skip the summit. The AI Impact Summit, which aims to explore the implications of artificial intelligence on society and economy, had anticipated his participation given his prominence in the field. Gates' absence is seen as a significant moment, reflecting the complex interplay between personal reputation and public engagement in major discussions surrounding technology and ethics.