A Belagavi-based technology company, Anthropic Software Pvt Ltd, has filed a legal case against US artificial intelligence company Anthropic PBC, alleging that the American firm’s use of the same name in India is causing confusion and damaging its business.
Belagavi Company Says It Was First
Anthropic Software, founded in 2017 in Belagavi by Mohammad Ayyaz Mulla, develops AI-based products for education, campus Wi-Fi systems, and road safety solutions. The company says it has been operating under the name “Anthropic” for nearly eight years.
In comparison, the US-based Anthropic PBC was founded in 2021 by former OpenAI executives. The American company is known globally for its AI chatbot “Claude” and announced its India expansion only in late 2025, including plans to open an office in Bengaluru.
The Belagavi firm argues that it began using the name much earlier and has built its brand and client base in India over the years.
What Is the Problem?
According to the lawsuit filed in the Belagavi District Court, the local company claims that customers, partners and online users are confusing the two companies.
When people search for “Anthropic” online, most results now point to the US AI company. The Belagavi firm says this has reduced its visibility, affected its business reputation and caused brand dilution.
The company has described the situation as “passing off”, a legal term used when one business benefits from the name or reputation of another.
What the Belagavi Company Is Asking For
In its case filed in January 2026, Anthropic Software has asked the court to:
- Recognise its prior use of the name “Anthropic” in India since 2017
- Prevent the US company from using the name in a way that creates confusion in India
- Award damages reportedly amounting to around ₹1 crore
However, the court has not granted any interim stay at this stage. Notices have been issued, and the matter is scheduled for further hearing on February 16, 2026.
US Company’s Stand
So far, Anthropic PBC has not issued any public statement specifically about the Belagavi case. The company has continued announcing its India expansion plans and senior leadership appointments.
This case highlights a larger issue faced by smaller regional startups when global companies with similar names enter the market. While the US Anthropic operates in advanced AI research and chatbot technology, the Belagavi company works in applied AI solutions and software services — but both operate in the broader technology sector.
The court’s decision will determine whether the Belagavi-based company’s earlier use of the name gives it stronger rights within India.
For now, both companies continue to operate under the name “Anthropic” as the legal battle unfolds.