The Dalai Lama’s office released a statement on Sunday, February 8, 2026, denying any connection between the Tibetan spiritual leader and Jeffrey Epstein, convicted sex offender. The clarification came after a Chinese media story suggested that the Dalai Lama’s name was found in a series of files released by the U.S. Government. The office emphasized that the Dalai Lama had never interacted with Epstein and refuted any suggestion of ties.
Jeffrey Epstein was a rich financier who was convicted of sex crimes and made a name for himself all over the world for his connections to influential figures. And the case hasn’t disappeared, with news releases of the names of people who may have met him with government files and documents. Because the matter is so sensitive, anything involving a public figure’s name in connection to Epstein is often controversial.
The Chinese media outlets said the Dalai Lama's name was mentioned in newly released U.S. files. These reports quickly spread online raising doubts and rumors. But the Dalai Lama’s office strongly responded, arguing that such assertions were false and misleading. The office said that the Dalai Lama had never met Epstein, nor had any kind of contact with him.
The Dalai Lama’s life and work emphasize peace, compassion and spiritual guidance, said the statement. False associations destroy his reputation and deceive the public, his office said. They urged people to watch out for unverified reports, especially on sensitive issues.
This incident illustrates how the issuance of government documents may also create misunderstanding. The names in the files do not always point to explicit involvement or affiliation. Public figures are often vulnerable to being associated with controversies without evidence, especially those of global influence. The Dalai Lama’s office acted immediately to protect his image and reassure followers around the world.
The Dalai Lama’s office denial is made all the more explicit when there’s no connection between him and Jeffrey Epstein. Even though news accounts may occasionally go viral, official explanations are necessary in order to get the facts off the subject as opposed to the theory. The case is a stark and timely reminder how we must be judicious in the face of information, for better or worse, about the standing of respected individuals.
