Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs have raised concerns over the controversy surrounding Galgotias University and a robotic dog showcased at the India AI Impact Summit 2026. They have called for strict action, including penalties, against the university, labeling the incident as a national embarrassment that has led to international ridicule. The MPs emphasized the importance of proper scrutiny before allowing exhibitors to participate, highlighting the need for thorough checks to prevent such incidents.
The MPs criticized the university for causing confusion and propagating misinformation under the guise of innovation. They expressed disappointment over the distraction caused at a major global event meant to showcase India’s capabilities. Stressing the need for accountability, they suggested that the government’s decision to remove the university from the summit was just the first step, advocating for additional penalties to be imposed.
In response to the controversy, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Anil Desai questioned the oversight that allowed such an exhibit to be featured at the summit. He raised concerns about the display of a Chinese AI model without proper verification, especially considering the international audience present. Desai called for accountability not only from the university but also from those responsible for permitting such participation without adequate scrutiny.
The Centre, in its initial reaction to the issue, emphasized the importance of showcasing genuine work at such platforms and avoiding the spread of misinformation. The controversy arose when a Professor of Communications associated with Galgotias University mistakenly attributed a Chinese robotic dog, Unitree Go2, as a product developed by the university. The university later clarified the misunderstanding, attributing it to miscommunication and unauthorized statements made by the representative.
