Dalai Lama Never Met Epstein, Assert Tibetan Exiles, Warn of China-Linked Smear Campaign

Dharamshala, Feb 10 : The exiled Tibetan community in Dharamshala on Monday strongly rejected reports and social media posts attempting to associate the Dalai Lama with Jeffrey Epstein, describing the claims as unfounded and politically motivated. The spiritual leader’s office issued a categorical denial, stating he had never met Epstein or authorised any interaction.

Community representatives suggested the allegations resurfaced shortly after news of the Dalai Lama receiving a Grammy Award, raising suspicions about the timing and intent behind the claims.

Leaders Demand Proof, Cite Propaganda Concerns
Youdon Aukatsang, a member of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, expressed disappointment over the controversy and insisted there was no connection whatsoever. She urged those circulating the allegations to present evidence or issue an apology.

Aukatsang alleged the narrative bore signs of coordinated propaganda, possibly involving actors aligned with China. She maintained that references being cited lacked substantiation, asserting the accusations were entirely false.

Youth Congress Flags Coordinated Information Campaign
Tenzin Lobsang, general secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress, said the organisation had reviewed the material in question and found no proof linking the Dalai Lama to Epstein. He noted that while the spiritual leader’s name appeared multiple times in circulated documents, it did not establish any relationship.

Lobsang further claimed the narrative originated abroad and was later amplified by state-linked media outlets, calling it a deliberate attempt to spread disinformation. He added that certain individuals may have used the Dalai Lama’s name without permission to seek financial support, but emphasized that no verified connection exists.

Dalai Lama’s Office Issues Firm Statement
In an official statement released from Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama’s office said, “We can unequivocally confirm that His Holiness has never met Jeffrey Epstein or authorised any meeting or interaction with him by anyone on his behalf.”

The office reiterated the clarification on social media, warning that recent reports tied to the “Epstein files” were attempting to create a misleading association.