Bill Gates’s Andhra Pradesh visit sparks backlash amid Epstein files controversy

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates received a warm welcome from the Andhra Pradesh government during his India visit, but the reception triggered online criticism linked to allegations resurfacing from the Epstein Files. Gates has categorically denied all claims, calling them false and baseless, even as state leaders highlighted discussions focused on development and technology-driven governance.

What Happened in Andhra Pradesh

Gates was welcomed at Gannavaram Airport by state minister Nara Lokesh and other cabinet members before visiting the state secretariat in Amaravati. According to officials, the meetings focused on expanding cooperation in health, agriculture, education and digital governance, in collaboration with the Gates Foundation.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu recalled his long association with Gates dating back to 1997, stating that early conversations on building an IT ecosystem have now evolved into a broader vision of innovation-led governance under “Swarna Andhra 2047”.

Epstein Files Trigger Online Criticism

The reception, however, drew sharp reactions on social media after Gates’s name appeared in recently released documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in prison in 2019. Several users criticised Indian leaders for engaging with Gates, alleging impropriety and accusing him of treating India as a testing ground for products.

Gates has consistently denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the allegations as “absolutely absurd and completely false.” No Indian political party officially sought to capitalise on the controversy, though criticism remained widespread online.

India Visit Continues Amid Debate

Despite the backlash, Gates’s India visit continued as scheduled, including participation in the AI–India Impact Summit. State officials maintained that the engagement was centred on development goals and improving public service delivery through technology, rather than personal controversies.