Robodog row escalates: Power cut off at Galgotias University pavilion after being asked to vacate AI Summit

NEW DELHI: Power was reportedly cut off at the Galgotias University pavilion at the AI Summit Expo after organiser asked the institution to vacate its stall, amid a controversy over a robotic dog displayed at the booth.

The row erupted after the university showcased the quadruped robot under the name “Orion.” Observers and critics on social media alleged that the machine was not an in-house innovation but a commercially available Unitree Go2, manufactured by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics. The Go2 model is sold in India for approximately Rs 2–3 lakh.





Amid mounting scrutiny over the origin and ownership of the technology on display, organisers directed the Greater Noida-based university to vacate the expo space.

The controversy gained traction after Prof Neha Singh, representing the university, earlier described “Orion” as having been developed by the institution’s Centre of Excellence while speaking to DD News.



The remarks triggered questions about whether imported hardware had been presented as a university-built product at a national AI event.

Responding to the backlash, Galgotias University issued a clarification stating that it had not claimed to have manufactured the robotic dog. The institution said the exhibit was intended as part of its academic initiative to expose students to AI programming and hands-on learning using globally available technologies.

“We have not built this robodog, nor have we claimed to. Our focus is on enabling students to study and work with cutting-edge platforms so they can design and develop future innovations,” the university said.

Prof. Singh later said the episode stemmed from “unclear communication,” adding that the robot was introduced to inspire students rather than to be presented as an indigenously manufactured system.

Opposition leaders criticised the incident, arguing that showcasing an imported device at a flagship AI forum risked undermining the summit’s emphasis on domestic innovation.