Indian University Faces Backlash Over Claimed Robot Dog Invention

Recent Delhi – Galgotias University in India is facing significant criticism after a professor falsely presented a Chinese-made robotic dog as an indigenous invention at the India AI Impact Summit. The incident, which unfolded on February 18, 2026, has sparked outrage on social media and raised questions about India’s AI ambitions.

The Claim and the Reveal

Neha Singh, a professor of communications at Galgotias University, told India’s state-run broadcaster DD News that the robot, named “Orion,” was “developed” at the university’s Centre of Excellence. However, online users quickly identified the robot as the Go2 model manufactured by Unitree Robotics, a Chinese firm as reported by the BBC and Al Jazeera. The Unitree Go2 is commercially available for approximately 200,000 rupees (roughly $2,200 or £1,600) according to the BBC, and $2,800 as reported by Al Jazeera.

University’s Response and Subsequent Events

In a statement released on Wednesday, Galgotias University denied claiming it had built the robot, characterizing the backlash as a “propaganda campaign.” The university stated that the robotic programming was part of an effort to facilitate students learn AI programming and develop practical skills using globally available tools as the BBC reported. Professor Singh later told reporters that her remarks may have been misinterpreted according to the BBC.

Despite the university’s denial, social media users accused Galgotias of dishonesty. Reports indicated that the university was initially asked to vacate its stall at the summit, though faculty members stated they had not received official communication regarding this request. Later, news agency Press Trust of India reported that the electricity supply to the stall was cut off as reported by the BBC. A BBC reporter at the summit confirmed that the lights were turned off at the booth and no university staff were present.

Political Fallout and Summit Context

The incident drew criticism from the Indian National Congress opposition party, which used the event to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is hosting the five-day India AI Impact Summit. The party accused the Modi government of making India a “laughing stock globally” with regard to AI as reported by Al Jazeera.

The India AI Impact Summit, billed as the first major AI gathering hosted in the Global South, has too faced organizational challenges, including overcrowding and logistical issues. Despite these difficulties, over $100 billion in investment in India AI projects has been pledged during the summit, including contributions from the Adani Group, Microsoft, and Yotta according to Al Jazeera.

Key Figures at the Summit

The summit is scheduled to feature addresses from prominent figures in the AI field, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei as reported by Al Jazeera.