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Galgotias University has issued an official apology after controversy erupted over a robotic dog displayed at the India AI Impact Summit. The university vacated its stall after the machine was identified as a Chinese-made Unitree Go2.
Galgotias University issues formal apology, Vacate AI Summit stall
New Delhi: Galgotias University has issued a formal apology following controversy over a robotic dog displayed at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. In a press release dated February 18, 2026, from Greater Noida, the university acknowledged confusion caused during the event and clarified its position.
The statement said one of its representatives manning the pavilion was “ill-informed” about the technical origins of the product and, in her enthusiasm while speaking on camera, provided factually incorrect information. The university added that the representative was not authorised to speak to the press.
“We apologise profusely for the confusion created at the recent AI Summit,” the statement read, while asserting that there was no institutional intent to misrepresent the innovation. The university further stated that it remains committed to academic integrity, transparency, and responsible representation of its work. It also confirmed that, understanding the organisers’ sentiment, it had vacated the premises.
Galgotias University issues a clarification after the robodog row at the AI Impact Summit expo:
“We apologise for the confusion caused. A representative, ill-informed about the product’s technical origins, gave incorrect information without authorisation. Respecting the… pic.twitter.com/yL6GfR4qp9
— The Frustrated Indian (@FrustIndian) February 18, 2026
The controversy unfolded at Bharat Mandapam, where the university had showcased a robotic dog named “Orion.” Questions were raised after videos circulated online showing faculty members describing the robot as part of the university’s Centre of Excellence initiatives.
Soon after the clips went viral, social media users identified the robot as the Unitree Go2, manufactured by Chinese firm Unitree Robotics. The commercially available robotic dog is sold in India for approximately Rs 2-3 lakh.
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Eyewitnesses said university staff began clearing the pavilion after the issue gained traction. Reports also suggested that the power supply to the stall was cut off following instructions to vacate the space.
Earlier, Professor Neha Singh had stated that the confusion stemmed from unclear communication during the presentation. She said the robot was showcased for educational exposure and inspiration, not as a product built by the university.
The incident sparked debate online over transparency in innovation showcases. With its official statement now released, the university has sought to close the matter, reiterating that there was no intention to falsely claim ownership of the technology.
