Galgotias University professor Neha Singh has drawn criticism after presenting a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit. Moreover, she stated that the robot, named Orion, was developed by the Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University in Greater Noida.
However, social media users quickly pointed out discrepancies. They identified the robot as a Unitree Go2 manufactured by China-based Unitree Robotics.
Viral Video Triggers Backlash
A video surfaced online on Tuesday showing Singh speaking about the robot in an interview. Furthermore, she described it as a university-developed innovation.
Soon after, users highlighted that the robot matched the Unitree Go2 model. Consequently, the claim sparked widespread criticism across platforms.
By Wednesday, organisers asked Galgotias University to vacate its stall at Bharat Mandapam. Additionally, authorities cut off the power supply to the university’s exhibition booth.
University Issues Apology
Hours later, Galgotias University released an official statement. The institution said Neha Singh had been “ill-informed” during the interaction.
The university stated she lacked awareness of the product’s technical origins. Moreover, it added that she was not authorised to speak to the media.
According to the statement, Singh gave factually incorrect information in her enthusiasm on camera. However, the university denied any institutional intent to misrepresent the innovation.
It reaffirmed commitment to academic integrity and transparency. Furthermore, the institution said it vacated the venue while understanding the organiser’s sentiment.
Who Is Neha Singh?
Neha Singh serves as Head of Department Communication at Galgotias University. She joined the institution in November 2023.
Previously, she worked as an assistant professor at Sharda University in Greater Noida. She earned her MBA from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Additionally, she completed her graduation at the University of Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh. Her LinkedIn profile picture with “#OpenToWork” also went viral amid the controversy.
The feature signals that a user seeks new professional opportunities.
Neha Singh’s Clarification
On Wednesday, Singh addressed the controversy publicly. She stated that the robot was not manufactured by the university. Moreover, she clarified that the institution never claimed to have built it.
She explained that unclear expression may have caused misunderstanding. Additionally, she said limited time and surrounding noise affected communication.
“Your six can be my nine,” she remarked while describing perception differences. She emphasised that the university introduced the robot to inspire students.
She further said the university encourages students to build better technologies independently. Moreover, she reiterated that the institution supports AI innovation through advanced tools.
Government’s Stand
IT Secretary Krishnan responded firmly to the incident. He stated that the government would not tolerate misrepresentation of exhibits.
He added that authorities do not want controversial agencies displaying products not created by them. Consequently, the remark underscored the seriousness of accurate representation at such events.
