Galgotias University came under scrutiny after presenting a Chinese-made robodog as part of its exhibit at the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The device, produced by Chinese robotics firm Unitree, was initially described by a university professor as developed at the institution’s Centre of Excellence, sparking controversy online.
The Product Misunderstanding
In a viral video, Professor Neha Singh introduced the robotic dog, Orion, saying, “This has been developed at the Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University.” Soon after, social media users pointed out that the robot is manufactured by Unitree, a Chinese company known for affordable quadruped robots similar to Boston Dynamics’ Spot, capable of tasks from obstacle navigation to industrial inspections.
University Clarification
Galgotias University clarified that it had never claimed the robodog as its own. “Galgotias has not built this robodog, neither have we claimed it,” the statement said. “What we are building are minds that will soon design, engineer, and manufacture such technologies in Bharat. The recently acquired robodog from Unitree is part of that journey — a classroom in motion for students to experiment and expand their knowledge.”
Dr. Aishwarya Shrivastava, another professor at the AI Summit, reiterated the point, stating that the device was misinterpreted. “We never claimed that we manufactured it; it was part of our AI investment. The logo of the Chinese company was not hidden, and the robodog is here for research and development purposes,” she said.
AI Summit Exit Controversy
Following the backlash, reports emerged suggesting the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the AI Summit. However, Galgotias University stated it had received no official instructions from the organisers or the ministry. Professor Neha Singh told reporters on Day 3 of the summit, “I do not have any information about that. What I know is that today we are all present here.”
Despite the clarification, the robodog was removed from display hours after the controversy went viral on social media.
This incident highlights the sensitivity around representing AI and robotics innovations and the importance of clear communication during public demonstrations. (Agency)
