Review ties with Gates Foundation: RJD MLA to govt

Buxar: RJD MP from Buxar Sudhakar Singh has written to CM Nitish Kumar, urging the state govt to immediately review and reconsider its association with Bill Gates and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.In his letter, the MP referred to reports linking Bill Gates’ name to documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He said such associations have raised ethical concerns globally and questioned Gates’ continued leadership role at the Foundation.The MP alleged that people appointed and funded by the Foundation are serving as assistants to senior IAS officers and may have access to sensitive policy-related information. He sought clarity on several issues, including the legal basis for the appointment of Foundation-funded personnel.Sudhakar demanded immediate disengagement from the Gates Foundation and its associated initiatives, including the Centre for Health and Agriculture Policy in Patna. He called for a thorough investigation into the appointment process and the specific roles of Foundation-funded personnel working alongside senior officials.He added that the Bihar govt must ensure transparency, accountability and protection of sovereign policy-making processes within the state.