In New Delhi on Feb. 27, 2024, Congress, TMC and NCP MPs demanded answers from Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri after photographs surfaced of him meeting Jeffrey Epstein three times.
Puri, who left his post as UN ambassador in 2017, said the encounters were part of an International Peace Institute delegation linked to the Independent Commission on Multilateralism, insisting they were strictly professional.
Supriya Shrinate slammed Puri, asking why Modi would associate with a convicted sex offender and demanding proof he never met Epstein "one‑on‑one."
Mahua Moitra added that the photos proved Epstein sat behind Puri in 3‑4 meetings, calling the delegation "shady."
Anish Gawande called the photos "damning" and urged the government to disclose the content of the talks, warning that diplomatic necessity cannot excuse cooperation with a criminal.
Sanjay Raut demanded the purpose of the meetings, hinting at a parliamentary inquiry. A question hour on the matter is slated for the next Lok Sabha session.