Tech billionaire skips major Delhi event following recent controversies
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has officially withdrawn from his highly anticipated speaking slot at the ongoing India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Speculation had been growing rapidly over the past few days regarding his actual attendance, especially since he is currently visiting the country. This sudden schedule change unfolds right in the middle of a massive Microsoft co-founder controversy surrounding his past associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Representatives from his philanthropic organization quickly stepped in to manage the narrative and clear the air. They confirmed on Thursday morning that he will no longer deliver the planned keynote address. Instead, the leadership team wants to ensure the spotlight remains strictly on the core priorities of the massive technology gathering. Ankur Vora Gates Foundation President for Africa and India, will now take the main stage to address global attendees and industry leaders.
Taking to social media platform X, the charitable organization explained the reasoning behind their careful decision. They emphasized that removing the billionaire from the Bill Gates AI Summit schedule guarantees that important discussions around artificial intelligence do not get overshadowed by personal scandals. Despite this high-profile absence, the organization firmly reassured the public that their dedication to shared health, equity, and development projects across India remains incredibly strong and completely unaffected.
This major global gathering, running from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam, brings together nations and international institutions. It aims to highlight responsible technology development and India's growing leadership in the digital sector. Built on three fundamental pillars—People, Planet, and Progress—the high-profile event encourages multilateral collaboration to tackle pressing global challenges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the massive exposition, setting a highly ambitious tone for discussions on digital innovation.
While national headlines dominate the current news cycle, readers following Odisha tech news are keeping a close watch on how these top-level leadership changes might impact future digital policies and local investments. Bhubaneswar AI enthusiasts understand that international collaborations discussed at this summit will eventually shape regional technology growth. Ankur Vora is now fully expected to carry the critical conversation forward, ensuring the foundation's technological and developmental objectives continue smoothly during today's crucial panel sessions.
With Agency Inputs
