Following the online backlash, the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology directed the university to vacate its pavilion at the summit. The ministry regularly oversees digital and AI-related initiatives and events across India.
Professor Neha Singh’s Clarification
Amid growing criticism, Professor Neha Singh issued a clarification, stating that her remarks during the presentation may have been misinterpreted.
She acknowledged that the communication might not have been clear and took responsibility for the confusion. According to Singh, the robotic dog was introduced to inspire students and provide hands-on exposure to advanced robotics rather than to claim it was manufactured by the university.
She maintained that the institution never intended to assert ownership of the hardware itself but aimed to demonstrate how students could work on AI programming and robotics applications using available global tools.
University’s Official Stand
Galgotias University later released a formal statement distancing itself from claims that it had built the robotic dog. The university clarified that it had “never claimed to have manufactured” the machine.
Instead, it described the robot as a learning tool purchased to help students develop AI skills. The institution stated that the robotic program forms part of its broader effort to equip students with practical exposure to global technologies amid the rising demand for AI talent.
The summit itself was positioned as a platform to promote innovation, digital transformation, and collaboration in artificial intelligence.
LinkedIn Status Sparks Further Buzz
Shortly after the controversy erupted, Neha Singh’s LinkedIn profile displayed the “Open to Work” badge, drawing further public attention. The update fueled speculation about internal developments within the university, though no official statement has confirmed any change in her employment status.
In her LinkedIn bio, Singh describes herself as a communication professional with a passion for language, articulation, and public speaking. She has been associated with Galgotias University in Greater Noida since late 2023 and previously worked at Sharda University.
She holds an MBA degree from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Larger Questions on Academic Integrity
The episode has reignited discussions around transparency in academic showcases and the importance of clearly distinguishing between imported technology and indigenous innovation. With India pushing for self-reliance in emerging technologies under various national missions, claims of innovation are subject to intense public scrutiny.
Experts say that while using global technology for educational purposes is common practice, clear communication remains crucial—especially at high-profile summits attended by policymakers and industry leaders.
As of now, neither the university nor the ministry has announced further action. However, the incident underscores the growing expectations placed on educational institutions participating in national technology events.
