Galgotias University has been asked to immediately vacate its exhibition space at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi after controversy erupted over the display of a China-made robotic dog, government sources said on Wednesday.
The directive follows mounting criticism over the university’s showcase of the Unitree Go2 robotic dog at the high-profile event held at Bharat Mandapam. The episode has sparked debate about transparency in technology demonstrations at a summit that brings together policymakers, industry leaders and innovators to discuss India’s artificial intelligence ambitions.
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Row Over China-Made Robotic Dog
The controversy began after reports claimed that the robotic dog manufactured by China-based Unitree was displayed under the name “Orion,” leading to allegations that imported technology was being presented as an indigenous innovation.
In response, Galgotias University issued a clarification stating that it had procured the device from Unitree and had “never claimed” to have built it.
“Let us be clear, Galgotias has not built this robodog, nor have we claimed to do so. What we are building are minds that will soon design, engineer and manufacture such technologies in Bharat,” the university said in its statement.
The institution emphasized that the robotic dog was acquired strictly for academic purposes and serves as a learning tool for students studying robotics and artificial intelligence.
Social Media Backlash and Government Action
Despite the clarification, the issue triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with several users accusing the university of misrepresenting the origin of the AI-powered machine.
Galgotias University maintained that it regularly introduces global technologies on campus to provide students with exposure to cutting-edge innovations, reiterating that its long-term focus is on nurturing indigenous technological capabilities.
However, government sources indicated that, following the controversy, authorities directed the university to vacate its allocated space at the AI Impact Summit expo.
Summit Continues Under Scrutiny
The AI Impact Summit, currently underway at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, continues amid heightened scrutiny. The event serves as a platform for discussions on India’s AI ecosystem, policy direction and technological advancements.
The development underscores the sensitivity surrounding the representation of foreign technology at events focused on promoting domestic innovation, particularly in strategic sectors such as artificial intelligence and robotics.