In a significant development at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Bill Gates has officially withdrawn from delivering his keynote address just hours before the scheduled speech. This decision follows renewed scrutiny linked to fresh U.S. Epstein files, which have intensified discussions about Gates' past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. The Gates Foundation stated, "After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the summit's key priorities, Mr. Gates will not be delivering his keynote address," emphasizing the need to avoid distractions from the summit's objectives. Ankur Vora, president of the Gates Foundation's Africa and India offices, will now represent the organization at the event, which has already attracted over $200 billion in investment pledges for AI infrastructure in India, as reported by multiple sources including the Daily Times and BBC News.