Bill Gates Skips India AI Impact Summit Keynote Amid Controversy and Online Backlash

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates did not deliver his scheduled keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, despite being invited as a major global speaker. His absence from the event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi drew attention, especially as several global technology leaders gathered for the high-profile summit.

A statement released on Thursday confirmed that Gates would not speak at the event. The Gates Foundation said the decision was made to ensure that the summit remains focused on its core priorities. The foundation added that Ankur Vora, President of its Africa and India Offices, would represent the organisation and address the summit later in the day.

The decision marked a change from earlier expectations. Gates had been listed as a keynote speaker, and his participation was anticipated alongside prominent technology leaders such as Sundar Pichai, Sam Altman, and Dario Amodei. His absence was noted when he did not appear in official stage photographs or summit proceedings.

Social Media Backlash and Controversies

Although no official reason was given by summit organisers or the foundation, strong social media backlash is believed to have influenced the decision.

In recent weeks, Gates has faced renewed scrutiny following disclosures linked to the Epstein Files. Online discussions raised concerns about his reported association with the late financier, prompting criticism over his invitation to a global technology forum.

Adding to the controversy, social media users circulated clips from a 2024 podcast in which Gates described India as a “laboratory” for testing innovations before scaling them globally. While the remarks were made in a broader development context, the clipped version shared online was perceived by some as insensitive.

These issues triggered widespread online debate, with critics questioning his participation in a major international summit hosted in India.

Visit to Andhra Pradesh Intensified Attention

The controversy gained momentum after Gates visited Andhra Pradesh prior to the summit. He met state officials and observed agricultural technology initiatives, receiving a traditional welcome.

Photos from the visit quickly went viral on social media platforms. While intended to highlight technology adoption in agriculture, the images reignited criticism and intensified online discussions about his summit participation.

Shift in Plans and Official Response

Earlier speculation about Gates’ absence began when his name was removed from the summit website’s speaker list. Initial responses suggested he would still attend, but Thursday’s confirmation clarified that he would not deliver the keynote.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw declined to comment on the matter, stating that attendance decisions are personal choices.

With global leaders and policymakers in attendance, the summit continues to focus on artificial intelligence innovation, governance, and responsible technology deployment. Gates Foundation representation ensures its participation remains part of the broader dialogue.

The development highlights how public perception, digital discourse, and reputational concerns can influence participation in high-profile international events. As AI governance and ethics remain central themes at the summit, discussions are expected to continue shaping the global technology landscape.