Itanagar, February 8: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has strongly condemned what he described as “malicious and baseless speculation” attempting to link His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama to the so-called “Epstein files,” expressing full support for the official clarification issued by the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama (OHHDL).
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| Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu with 14th Dalai Lama. (Image Courtesy: facebook.com/PemaKhanduBJP) |
Reacting to the controversy, Khandu said the allegations circulating on social media and certain media platforms were completely unfounded and appeared to be part of a deliberate misinformation campaign aimed at tarnishing the reputation of one of the world’s most respected spiritual leaders. He emphasized that the institution of the Dalai Lama has long stood as a symbol of peace, compassion, non-violence, and moral integrity, and should not be subjected to sensationalist narratives or unverified claims.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came after the OHHDL issued an unequivocal statement on February 8 rejecting any association between the Dalai Lama and the late American financier Jeffrey Epstein. The office categorically dismissed reports and online speculation suggesting such links, describing them as false, misleading, and without factual basis. It also urged the public to rely on credible and verified information rather than rumours circulating online.
Taking to social media, Khandu said attempts to drag the Dalai Lama’s name into the controversy were deeply irresponsible and condemnable. He stressed that misinformation targeting revered spiritual institutions not only damages reputations but also undermines public trust and promotes unnecessary division.
“The revered institution of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama must not be dragged into baseless narratives or malicious speculation like the so-called ‘Epstein files.’ Attempts to malign a sacred spiritual institution through misinformation are deeply irresponsible,” Khandu stated.
As a prominent leader from the Himalayan region and a strong advocate of Buddhist cultural heritage, Khandu reiterated that the Dalai Lama is globally respected for his lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, interfaith harmony, and the promotion of human values. He observed that efforts to discredit the Tibetan spiritual leader often emerge from politically motivated campaigns seeking to undermine his moral authority and influence.
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The controversy has sparked criticism from political leaders, religious figures, and civil society groups, many of whom have called for greater responsibility in public discourse and urged people not to spread unverified information. Supporters of the Dalai Lama have also highlighted his decades-long contribution to peacebuilding, dialogue, and humanitarian causes around the world.
Khandu’s statement adds to the growing voices condemning the circulation of false claims and reaffirming confidence in the integrity of the institution of the Dalai Lama. The Chief Minister called on the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to uphold respect for individuals and institutions that have dedicated themselves to the service of humanity.
