‘Fake alert’: MEA rejects claims of leaders falling sick after Brics summit in Delhi

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed online rumors alleging that several world leaders fell ill after participating in the Brics summit held in New Delhi. The MEA's fact-checking unit cautioned against the dissemination of such "malicious posts" on social media platforms. The warning came after social media users circulated claims related to the health of leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

A post by Wanjun Xie, chairman of the China Democracy Party, alleged that Xi Jinping fainted during the Brics summit and later suffered a stroke, subsequently being flown back to Beijing for medical treatment. However, these claims have not been officially verified by Chinese authorities or reputable news sources. Another claim suggested that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa withdrew from public engagements following the summit, citing health concerns.

His office later confirmed that Ramaphosa was advised by his doctors to rest and recover, but detailed information about the nature and severity of his illness was not provided.

Ramaphosa returned to South Africa on Monday after the Brics summit and was expected to resume his public duties. However, his office stated that ministers would act as his representatives wherever necessary. The Brics summit took place on September 12 and 13, gathering leaders and representatives from the expanded Brics group. Chinese President Xi Jinping was among the attendees at the summit in Delhi.