Anthropic Faces Trademark Dispute with Local Software Firm During India Market Expansion
As Anthropic accelerates its expansion into the Indian market, the AI company has encountered legal challenges from a local software development firm claiming prior use of the "Anthropic" trademark. This case highlights the complexities that arise when rapidly scaling AI companies enter established markets with existing local businesses.
The dispute emerges as Anthropic intensifies its strategic focus on India, having announced the establishment of an India office in October 2025 and recently appointing Irina Ghose, former Microsoft India Managing Director, to spearhead its Bengaluru operations. These moves underscore the critical importance of the South Asian market for global AI enterprises expanding beyond North American and European territories.
In January 2026, Anthropic Software, an Indian software company, filed a complaint in the Karnataka Commercial Court asserting that it has operated under the "Anthropic" name since 2017. The company alleges that the AI firm's recent market entry has resulted in significant customer confusion and brand dilution.
The plaintiff is seeking:
• Legal recognition of its prior trademark use in India
• Injunctive relief to prevent further brand confusion
• Damages amounting to ₹10 million (approximately $110,000)
Mohammadayyaz A. Mulla, founder and director of Anthropic Software, stated that the company is not pursuing confrontation but rather seeking clarity and acknowledgment of its established presence in the Indian market. "As of now, I am exercising my legal right as it's causing huge confusion to my customers," Mulla explained, noting that litigation serves as a contingency measure if amicable coexistence cannot be established.
India represents a strategic battleground for AI companies, being the world's most populous nation and one of the fastest-growing internet markets globally. The country is scheduled to host an AI Impact Summit in New Delhi next week, featuring Anthropic co-founder and CEO Dario Amodei alongside industry leaders including Sam Altman, Jensen Huang, and Sundar Pichai.
According to court documentation dated January 20, 2026, the Karnataka Commercial Court has issued notice and summons to Anthropic. However, the court declined to grant an interim injunction, scheduling the next hearing for February 16, 2026.
Anthropic has not responded to requests for comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.
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