New Delhi, Feb 2026 — The recent India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam has drawn global attention not only for technological announcements but also for a controversy involving Galgotias University, after a robotic dog displayed at its stall triggered criticism and political reactions.
The international summit, held from 16–21 February, showcased major AI innovations and attracted global leaders, technology executives, and policymakers. Several Indian AI models and projects were unveiled, highlighting India’s push to become a global AI hub.
However, controversy erupted on 18 February when a university representative presented a four-legged robot named “Orion” and described it as an indigenous development. Online users quickly identified the device as a Unitree Go2, a commercially available robot produced by a Chinese company and sold internationally.
Government officials stated exhibitors should not display products that are not their own, and the university was directed to vacate its exhibition stall. The institution later apologised, saying the spokesperson was “ill-informed” and not authorised to speak to media.
The incident triggered political reactions nationwide. Opposition parties criticised the episode, calling it embarrassing for India’s technology image, while the controversy intensified online debate about credibility and innovation claims.
Separately, the Indian Youth Congress issued legal notices to social media users and influencers, alleging that some online posts about the summit were defamatory or fabricated and demanding their removal within 24 hours.
Reports also indicated additional scrutiny over another device displayed at the stall that resembled a foreign-made drone system.
Despite the dispute, the summit overall saw major investment pledges exceeding $100 billion for AI projects in India and participation from global tech leaders.
Conclusion:
While the AI summit highlighted India’s technological ambitions, the robot-dog controversy underscored the importance of transparency and authenticity in innovation claims, turning a flagship tech event into a widely discussed political and credibility debate.
