MeitY Secretary Calls for Code of Conduct Amid Expo Controversy

The controversy surrounding Galgotias University’s participation in the AI Impact Expo 2026 has drawn significant attention, prompting a response from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). On February 19, 2024, MeitY Secretary S Krishnan emphasized the need for adherence to a code of conduct at such expos, stating that misinformation must not be tolerated.

In remarks made to the media, Krishnan highlighted the importance of showcasing genuine and credible work at events like the AI Summit. He stated, “We want genuine and actual work to be reflected in the way that people exhibit in expos. The idea is not to use this as an opportunity in any other fashion.” The Secretary refrained from commenting on whether Galgotias University was right or wrong in the situation, focusing instead on the need to avoid controversy.

The incident arose when Galgotias University staff vacated their stall following backlash over the display of a “Chinese” robodog. Sources indicated that university authorities had been instructed to leave the expo venue, which raised questions about the integrity of their presentation.

In a press release issued on the same day, Galgotias University Registrar Nitin Kumar Gaur apologized for the confusion at the AI Summit. He noted that one of the university’s representatives had provided incorrect information regarding the robodog, which was not developed by the institution. Gaur explained, “We at Galgotias University, wish to apologize profusely for the confusion created at the recent AI Summit. One of our representatives… gave factually incorrect information.”

Gaur clarified that the university’s involvement with the robot was intended for academic and research purposes, rather than claiming ownership of its development. “We didn’t develop it. We worked on its development… We want to bring them, just like that robot was brought, and an effort was made to get students to do research on it,” he added.

This clarification was necessary following a viral video in which Professor Neha Singh introduced the robodog as “Orion.” Gaur suggested that her choice of words might have led to the misunderstanding, saying, “I can say that perhaps she might have been confused by the words ‘develop’ and ‘development.’”

The situation at the AI Impact Expo underscores the delicate balance between innovation and accurate representation in academic settings. MeitY’s call for a strict adherence to a code aims to prevent misinformation and ensure that future exhibits maintain high standards of integrity.

As the conversation around the incident continues, both MeitY and Galgotias University appear committed to fostering an environment where genuine innovation can be showcased responsibly.