Sudhakar Singh Urges Nitish Kumar to Sever Ties with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation After Name Surfaces in Epstein Files

Patna — Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Sudhakar Singh has written to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, urging the state government to immediately end all partnerships and collaborations with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation following claims that the name of its co-founder, Bill Gates, has surfaced in the so-called “Epstein Files.”

In a letter dated February 17, which became publicly available on February 18, Singh raised concerns over the reputational implications of maintaining institutional ties amid the controversy.

📩 Contents of the Letter

In his communication, Singh stated that:

• The name of Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of the Gates Foundation, has reportedly appeared in documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein.

• The Bihar government should review and reconsider its engagements with the Foundation.

• Public institutions must exercise caution when associating with individuals or organizations facing serious allegations.

Singh argued that maintaining transparency and public trust should be paramount for the state government.

🏛 Bihar Government’s Engagement with the Foundation

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has collaborated with several Indian states, including Bihar, in areas such as:

• Public health initiatives

• Immunization programmes

• Agricultural reforms

• Technical support for governance systems

In Bihar, the Foundation has provided advisory and technical assistance in sectors including healthcare and rural development.

⚖️ Context of the Epstein Files

The “Epstein Files” refer to documents and records related to investigations into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Various public figures’ names have appeared in media discussions and document disclosures connected to the case, though inclusion in such records does not necessarily imply wrongdoing.

There has been no official statement linking the Gates Foundation’s institutional work in Bihar to any alleged misconduct.

🔎 Political Implications

The RJD MP’s letter adds a political dimension to the matter, potentially putting pressure on the Bihar government to clarify its position.

So far:

• There has been no official response from the Chief Minister’s Office.

• The Gates Foundation has not issued a specific comment on the MP’s letter.

• State officials have not indicated any immediate review of partnerships.

Observers note that development partnerships with international foundations are common across states and often focus on technical and advisory roles rather than direct funding control.

📌 What Happens Next?

The Bihar government may choose to:

• Review its agreements with the Foundation.

• Seek clarification from concerned parties.

• Maintain existing collaborations pending further developments.

The issue is likely to generate political debate in the state Assembly and beyond.