MEA Debunks Fake Social Media Rumors Regarding BRICS Leaders' Health After New Delhi Summit

Post

The Ministry of External Affairs has officially dismissed and strongly condemned false social media claims alleging that several world leaders fell ill or suffered health emergencies after attending the high-profile BRICS summit in New Delhi. Following viral misinformation circulating across various digital platforms, the MEA's official fact-checking unit took to social media to issue a strict fake alert, warning the public against misleading posts that targeted prominent global figures.

Fact-Checking Unit Exposes Misleading Claims on Social Media

The controversy erupted when unverified posts surfaced online, falsely claiming that the health of key figures attending the BRICS summit—including Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa—had severely deteriorated. A specific post by China Democratic Party Chairman Wanjun Ji alleged that Xi Jinping fainted and suffered a stroke during the event before returning to Beijing. However, the MEA's fact-checking unit swiftly declared these reports entirely false, noting that no credible news outlets or official Chinese channels had confirmed any such health incidents.

Clarifying the Status of Leaders Post-BRICS Summit

While rumors swirled online, context emerged regarding South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, whose office confirmed on Wednesday that he was advised by doctors to rest and recover due to mild ill health after returning from the India summit. The BRICS summit itself successfully brought together global leaders and representatives in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, 2026. By swiftly debunking baseless fabrications, the Indian government reinforced the importance of digital vigilance and verified reporting against malicious rumors targeting international leadership.