Galgotias University Apologises After Robotic Dog Claim Sparks Controversy at AI Summit

Galgotias University on Tuesday issued a public apology after facing backlash over a controversy involving a robotic dog displayed at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The row erupted after a video surfaced online showing a university representative speaking about the robot and suggesting it was developed by the institution’s Centre of Excellence.

Social media users were quick to point out that the robotic dog was a commercially available Chinese product and not an in-house innovation. The video triggered widespread criticism, with many accusing the university of misrepresenting the technology at a high-profile national event focused on artificial intelligence and innovation.

In its official statement, Galgotias University clarified that it had neither built nor claimed ownership of the robotic dog. The institution said the confusion stemmed from comments made by a staff member who was “ill-informed” and not authorised to speak to the media. The university identified the individual as a faculty member from its communications department and attributed the remarks to a misunderstanding rather than any deliberate attempt to mislead.

The university stressed that the robotic dog had been procured as a teaching and demonstration tool to provide students with hands-on exposure to advanced AI-enabled systems. It reiterated its commitment to transparency, academic integrity, and responsible representation of its work.

Following the controversy, organisers of the summit reportedly asked the university to vacate its exhibition space. Galgotias acknowledged the organisers’ concerns and said it had complied with the directive. While the university has sought to close the matter with its apology and clarification, the episode has underscored the importance of clear messaging and due diligence in high-visibility events centred on emerging technologies.