A robotic dog showcased as an in-house AI innovation by Galgotias University at India AI Impact Summit 2026 sparked controversy after it was identified as the Unitree Go2 by Unitree Robotics, raising questions over authenticity and official claims.
Galgotias University accused of presenting Chinese model (Image Source: Internet)
New Delhi: A robotic dog allegedly falsely presented as an in-house development of Galgotias University at the AI Impact Summit 2026 has triggered a major controversy. The robot was showcased as a state-of-the-art AI technology developed in India at the university’s ‘Center of Excellence.’
However, as questions mounted over its origin, sources claimed the university was asked to vacate the AI Summit Expo site. The professor at the centre of the row has denied receiving any such directive.
A video during the summit went viral on social media, in which a university representative was seen explaining the features of the robotic dog. In the video, this robot was named 'Orion,' and it was said that it has been developed by the university's Center of Excellence.
After this, many tech experts and social media users claimed that this robot is actually a model of the Chinese company Unitree Robotics. It was also told in some posts that this is the same model that has been displayed earlier in China.
After comparison of photographs and features, allegations arose that the university presented a foreign product as an Indian innovation.
After the controversy deepened, government sources said that the concerned university has been instructed to vacate the AI Summit Expo site immediately. After this incident, questions are also being raised on the functioning of the organizers and related institutions.
Amidst the allegations, the university presented its clarification, saying that it had not made any official claim of developing this robot itself. The professor of Galgotia University, Professor Neha Singh, says no directive has been received so far to vacate the summit, the robot dog was just brought to inspire students, and yes, it was not manufactured by us.
She further stated that the controversy arose due to a lack of clear communication, and she takes full accountability for that. She did not stop here; she even claimed that because of Galgotias University, the country has gained a lot of glory.
However, in the viral video, she ostensibly stated that it was developed by the university's Center of Excellence.
The robot over which there was controversy is actually said to be the Unitree Go2 model. It is an AI-powered quadruped robot, whose price in the market is said to be around Rs 2 to 3 lakh. It has been provided with 4D LiDAR technology, through which it can climb stairs, avoid obstacles, and walk while maintaining balance on rough roads.
