New Delhi, India – The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a strong denial, branding as “fake” reports circulating online that multiple world leaders became unwell after attending the BRICS Summit held in New Delhi. The clarification comes amid heightened social media speculation and concerns regarding the health of key figures following the international gathering.
MEA Fact-Checks 'Malicious' Online Posts
On Thursday, the MEA's fact-checking unit utilized its official social media channels to caution the public against what it described as “malicious” posts. “Fake Alert!!! We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms!” the ministry stated, directly addressing the rumors that had gained traction.
The online claims intensified after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa paused his public engagements upon returning from the summit. Simultaneously, unverified reports alleged that Chinese President Xi Jinping had departed the summit early due to medical reasons.
South African President Advised Rest
The office of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that the 73-year-old leader had been advised to rest due to ill health. “The Presidency wishes to advise that, due to ill health, President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently booked off from public engagements,” a statement read. Ramaphosa returned from the New Delhi summit on Monday, and ministers are expected to represent him where necessary. Deputy President Paul Mashatile is also reportedly recuperating from a minor medical procedure.
Rumors Around Xi Jinping's Health Dismissed
Social media platforms were also rife with unconfirmed rumors concerning Chinese President Xi Jinping's health during the multilateral event. One prominent post from Wanjun Xie, chairman of the China Democracy Party, claimed that President Jinping had suffered a stroke and fainted at the summit, leading to an early departure. Xie's post further alleged that Xi specifically arranged to board his special plane unassisted at Indira Gandhi International Airport to demonstrate his robust health to the world. However, these claims remain entirely unverified and have been implicitly addressed by the MEA's broader “fake alert.”
BRICS Summit Highlights
The BRICS Summit, which took place in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, 2026, operated under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” During the summit, leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration, expressing concern over nuclear dangers and ongoing conflicts. The declaration underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy while opposing “unilateral coercive measures” that contravene international law.