Galgotias University Issues Apology Following Robotic Dog Controversy at AI Summit
Galgotias University has issued a formal apology after a significant controversy erupted over the display of a Chinese-made robotic dog at its exhibition stall during the AI Impact Summit expo held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The university was subsequently asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit, leading to a public statement expressing regret for the incident.
University's Statement and Explanation
In a press release issued on Wednesday, Galgotias University expressed profound regret for the confusion created at the recent AI Summit. The statement clarified that the controversy arose because Professor Neha Singh, who was managing the university's stall, was unaware of the technical origins of the robotic product.
The university stated: "We at Galgotias University wish to apologize profusely for the confusion created at the recent AI Summit. One of our representatives, manning the pavilion, was ill-informed. She was not aware of the technical origins of the product and in her enthusiasm of being on camera, gave factually incorrect information even though she was not authorized to speak to the press."
The university further explained that understanding the organizers' sentiment, they have vacated the premises as requested.
Identification of the Robotic Dog
The robotic dog, which was showcased under the name "Orion" at the university's booth, was quickly identified by observers as the Unitree Go2. This is a commercially available quadruped robot manufactured by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics. The Unitree Go2 is available for purchase in India at an approximate price range of Rs 2-3 lakh.
The incident triggered substantial criticism from attendees and observers, particularly because the AI Impact Summit was specifically designed to highlight domestic innovation and advancements in artificial intelligence within India. Critics alleged that the robot was presented as an in-house innovation by the university, raising serious concerns about the showcasing of imported technology at a national event dedicated to promoting Indian AI capabilities.
Consequences and Summit Context
Government sources confirmed that Galgotias University was indeed asked to vacate its stall following the controversy. Reports indicate that power supply to the university's pavilion was also cut off after they were directed to leave the expo premises.
The AI Impact Summit 2026, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serves as a flagship event focused on promoting India's advancements and capabilities in the field of artificial intelligence. The summit aims to showcase homegrown innovations and technological developments, making the display of foreign-made technology particularly problematic in this context.
This incident highlights the sensitive nature of technology representation at national events and underscores the importance of accurate product disclosure, especially when foreign-made products are involved in exhibitions meant to showcase domestic innovation.
