Galgotias University Robot Dog Row: AI Summit Display Sparks Controversy
A major controversy unfolded at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi after a robotic dog displayed by Galgotias University was identified as an imported product rather than an in-house innovation.
The Greater Noida–based institution was reportedly asked to vacate its exhibition space after a video from the summit went viral, showing representatives presenting the robotic dog as a creation of the university’s Centre of Excellence.
Viral video puts spotlight on ‘Orion’ robot
At the event, the robotic dog was showcased under the name “Orion.” In a video widely shared online, a university representative described the machine’s features and stated it had been developed by the institution.
A separate clip showed a professor making a similar claim to reporters.
However, social media users quickly identified the robot as the Unitree Go2, a commercially available robotic dog manufactured by Unitree Robotics. The robot is available for purchase in India and typically costs between ₹2 lakh and ₹3 lakh.
Social media backlash and allegations
Once the robot’s identity became known, users accused the university of presenting foreign technology as an Indian innovation. The issue quickly gained traction online, triggering widespread criticism and debate.
University issues clarification
In response, Galgotias University released a statement on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that the robotic dog had been purchased for educational purposes.
The statement said the robot serves as a hands-on learning platform for students to experiment with robotics and artificial intelligence. The Galgotias University emphasized that it had not built the device, despite remarks made by its representatives during media interactions.
It added that the goal is to equip students with skills to design and manufacture similar technologies in India in the future.
Community Note challenges the university’s claim
The university later described the criticism as part of a “propaganda campaign.” However, the post received a Community Note stating that the claim of never presenting the robot as its own was misleading.
The note highlighted that the robot had been renamed “Orion” and publicly described by representatives as an in-house development.
Faculty react amid ongoing confusion
Neha, a communications faculty member who had earlier described the robot as a university innovation, later said her remarks may have been misunderstood. She clarified she is not part of the AI department and suggested the robot was brought for demonstration purposes.
Meanwhile, Professor Aishwarya Shrivastava stated the university has not received any official communication regarding being asked to vacate the summit expo area.
Why this controversy matters
The incident has sparked wider conversations about transparency, academic credibility, and the importance of accurately representing technological innovation — especially at national platforms promoting India’s AI ecosystem.