New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The Ministry of External Affairs has pushed back against social media claims suggesting that several foreign leaders became unwell after attending the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, calling the posts misleading and warning users against spreading unverified information.
The ministry’s fact-checking team addressed the claims on Thursday through a post on X, describing the circulating messages as fake and urging people to be cautious about material being shared online.
The controversy gained attention after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa temporarily stepped away from his public schedule following his return from India.
According to the South African Presidency, Ramaphosa was advised by his doctors to take time off after falling ill. He returned from the BRICS meeting on Monday and has since been resting while government responsibilities continue through other officials.
The Presidency said Ramaphosa had asked ministers to attend some engagements on his behalf where necessary.
The situation also coincided with the absence of South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was recovering after undergoing a minor medical procedure. Mashatile said he would continue following medical advice while his office and government colleagues handled ongoing responsibilities.
The developments subsequently became the subject of online speculation, with some posts attempting to connect the health-related developments to the BRICS gathering in New Delhi.
Separate claims also circulated online alleging that Chinese President Xi Jinping had cut short his participation in the summit because of a medical issue and travelled back to China on a special flight. Those claims have not been independently established.
Xi was present at the New Delhi summit on September 12 and also held a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit. There is no verified information establishing a connection between his participation in the summit and the claims circulating on social media.
India hosted the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. The meeting brought together leaders from the expanded 11-member grouping for discussions covering international affairs, economic cooperation, global governance and other issues affecting member countries.
The summit concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. Among other issues, the document called for dialogue and diplomacy to address international disputes and reaffirmed support for stronger multilateral cooperation.
The leaders also voiced opposition to unilateral and protectionist measures that they said were inconsistent with international law.
The declaration further highlighted concerns surrounding armed conflicts and nuclear risks, while calling for greater international coordination to address global challenges.
The MEA’s latest clarification comes amid growing scrutiny of claims shared on social media, particularly when they involve visiting foreign leaders and major international events. The ministry’s warning underscores the importance of relying on verified information rather than unsubstantiated posts when assessing such developments.
