New Delhi

Galgotias University has been asked to vacate its stall at the AI Summit Expo with immediate effect, sources said on Wednesday, amid controversy over the display of a robotic dog and questions surrounding the origin and ownership of the technology showcased.

The issue erupted after the university faced sharp criticism on social media for exhibiting a robotic dog labelled ‘Orion’ at the expo. Critics alleged that the device was not an in-house innovation but a Chinese-made Unitree Go2, raising concerns about misrepresentation of imported technology as indigenous work.

As the backlash intensified, organisers directed the Greater Noida-based institution to vacate the expo premises, sources familiar with the matter said. On Wednesday, the university’s stall at the expo had no display.

Responding to the controversy, Galgotias University issued a statement saying the robotic programming initiative was part of its effort to help students learn artificial intelligence programming and acquire real-world skills using globally available tools and resources.

“The robotic programming is part of our endeavour to make students learn AI programming and develop and deploy real-world skills using globally available tools and resources, given that developing AI talent is the need of the hour,” the university said.

It added that faculty members and students were “deeply pained by the propaganda campaign” against the institution, asserting that its vision remains focused on student learning and innovation. The university said it provides access to modern technologies to help students gain practical exposure and prepare for future challenges.

“Spreading negativity can harm the morale of students, who are working hard to innovate, learn and build their skills using global technologies,” it said, reiterating that the exercise was aimed purely at hands-on learning.

Professor Neha Singh of Galgotias University told PTI that the controversy arose due to a lack of clarity in communication.

“The controversy happened because things may not have been expressed clearly and the intent may not have been properly understood,” she said.

Clarifying the issue of the robotic dog, Singh added, “We cannot claim that we manufactured it. It was introduced to inspire students to create something better on their own. Our university contributes to building future leaders by providing cutting-edge technologies in AI, and it will continue to do so.”

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On reports that the government had asked the university to vacate the expo area, she said she had no specific information, adding that university representatives were present at the venue earlier in the day.