Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, has canceled his participation in a major AI summit in India, just hours before his keynote address. His withdrawal comes amid increasing scrutiny regarding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, particularly following the recent release of emails by the U.S. Department of Justice. Gates' decision was announced by the Gates Foundation, stating it was made 'after careful consideration' to ensure that the focus remained on the summit's main priorities.

Previously, the Gates Foundation had dismissed rumors regarding his absence, affirming that Gates would attend the summit, which included prominent global leaders such as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. The sudden decision to withdraw has raised eyebrows and has sparked discussions on the broader implications of Epstein’s association affecting Gates' public engagements and credibility, especially in such high-profile events.

This unexpected exit not only draws attention to Gates but also casts a shadow over the AI summit itself, which was already facing organizational challenges according to reports from Reuters. As discussions around AI technology and ethics continue to evolve, the interplay between personal controversies and professional commitments will likely remain a focal point in public discourse, highlighting the intertwined nature of technology, reputation, and societal expectations.