Authorities on Wednesday directed Galgotias University to vacate its stall at the India AI Impact Summit Expo following allegations that a robotic dog displayed as an in-house innovation was actually a Chinese-made product. The move came after mounting criticism over the robot labelled “Orion,” which critics claimed resembled the China-manufactured Unitree Go2.

While PTI sources indicated that the university was asked to clear the stall, the institution has maintained that it has no formal information regarding such an order.

Responding to the controversy, Professor Neha Singh of Galgotias University said the issue may have arisen due to a communication gap.

“The controversy happened because things may not have been expressed clearly. I take accountability that perhaps I did not communicate it properly, as it was done with a lot of energy and enthusiasm and very quickly, so I may not have come across as eloquently as I usually do,” she said.

Clarifying the university’s position on the robotic dog, she added: “One important point is regarding the robot dog—we cannot claim that we manufactured it. I have told everyone that we introduced it to our students to inspire them to create something better on their own.”

On reports that the government had asked the university to vacate the expo area, she said, “I do not have any information about that. What I know is that today we are all present here.”

The university also issued an official statement earlier, expressing concern over what it described as a “propaganda campaign.” It clarified that robotic programming is part of its broader effort to train students in artificial intelligence using globally available tools and platforms. The institution emphasised that its focus remains on student learning, innovation, and hands-on exposure to advanced technologies.

“Our university's vision is focused on student learning & innovation and we provide students with access to modern technologies so they can gain practical experience and prepare for the future. Spreading negativity can harm the morale of students, who are working hard to innovate, learn, and build their skills using global technologies,” the statement said, adding that negativity around the issue could harm student morale.

Political row erupts

The controversy quickly escalated into a political flashpoint, with Rahul Gandhi criticising the AI Summit as a “disorganised PR spectacle.”

In a post on X, Gandhi alleged that instead of leveraging India’s AI talent and data, Chinese products were being showcased at the event. The Indian National Congress also accused the government of damaging India’s global image in artificial intelligence, alleging that Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw was promoting Chinese technology at an Indian summit.

About the AI Summit

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

The five-day global gathering, structured around the pillars of People, Planet, and Progress, has brought together heads of state, ministers, AI researchers, technology companies, and policymakers. The summit aims to advance India’s AI ambitions under the IndiaAI Mission and the Digital India initiative, positioning the country as a leader in inclusive and development-oriented artificial intelligence.