Baseless Claims: Dalai Lama refutes alleged connection to Epstein files

The office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama has issued a firm denial following reports and social media posts suggesting a possible connection between the Tibetan spiritual leader and Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted financier and operator of a sex trafficking ring. The rumors emerged after the release of the so-called Epstein files, a collection of documents, emails, and records from investigations into Epstein’s criminal activities. Some reports claimed that the Dalai Lama’s name appeared multiple times in these files, fueling baseless speculation about any association.

The rumors circulating in the media and online suggested that the Dalai Lama might have had meetings, correspondence, or other ties to Epstein. Some narratives exaggerated the number of references to imply direct involvement. Political leaders and observers quickly criticized these claims, emphasizing the lack of evidence.

In an official statement, the Dalai Lama’s office clarified that he has never met Jeffrey Epstein and has not authorized anyone to meet or interact with Epstein on his behalf. The statement condemned attempts to link the spiritual leader to Epstein’s network, describing such claims as misleading and irresponsible.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also condemned attempts to drag the revered institution of the Dalai Lama into baseless speculation, calling it deeply irresponsible. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju echoed this sentiment, urging the public not to associate the spiritual leader with controversies without credible proof.

Independent fact-checks indicate that while the Dalai Lama’s name appears in some of the Epstein files, these references are incidental or contextual and do not imply any personal, financial, or social connection with Epstein. Experts note that other prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi , Congress leader Rahul Gandhi , and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri , also appear in the documents in passing, but none are clients or involved in Epstein’s criminal activities. Mentions in a large document release simply reflect references or contextual notes, and do not constitute evidence of wrongdoing or involvement .

The controversy highlights how large-scale document releases, like the Epstein files , can lead to the spread of misinformation when names are taken out of context. Officials and fact-checkers agree that there is no verified link between the Dalai Lama and Jeffrey Epstein , and attempts to imply otherwise are unfounded.