A Belagavi-based IT services firm has initiated legal proceedings against U.S.-based artificial intelligence company Anthropic, alleging that the American AI major is using a brand name identical to its own. The Indian company claims it has been operating under the name “Anthropic” for several years and holds valid registrations in India, prompting concerns over brand confusion and intellectual property rights.

According to filings reviewed by legal observers, the Belagavi firm has approached relevant authorities seeking protection of its trademark and an injunction to prevent the U.S. AI company from operating under the same name within the Indian market.

Claims of Prior Use and Brand Confusion

The Indian IT company asserts that it has been offering software development, IT consulting, and digital transformation services under the “Anthropic” name well before the U.S.-based AI research firm expanded its presence in India. Company representatives argue that the similarity in names has already led to confusion among clients, partners, and vendors.

Legal experts note that trademark disputes often hinge on jurisdiction, prior use, and classification of services. If the Belagavi firm can establish earlier commercial use and valid registration within India, the case could pose challenges for the AI giant’s branding strategy in the country.

Anthropic’s Expanding Global Footprint

Anthropic, headquartered in the United States, is widely known in the AI industry for developing large language models and AI safety research systems. Backed by significant investments from global technology firms, the company has expanded operations across multiple countries, including India, where demand for enterprise AI solutions is rapidly growing.

While the U.S. firm has not publicly commented on the dispute, legal analysts suggest that multinational companies often face local trademark conflicts when entering new markets.

Legal and Business Implications

Intellectual property specialists say the outcome of the case could have broader implications for foreign tech firms entering India. Trademark registration is territorial, meaning rights granted in one country do not automatically extend to another. Companies expanding internationally must conduct thorough trademark searches and ensure compliance with local laws.

If courts rule in favor of the Belagavi firm, the U.S.-based AI company may be required to rebrand or operate under a modified name within India. Alternatively, the dispute could be resolved through a settlement or coexistence agreement.

Growing Focus on Brand Protection in Tech

As India’s technology ecosystem continues to grow, trademark protection is becoming increasingly critical for startups and established firms alike. Industry observers say this dispute highlights the importance of securing brand identity early and across jurisdictions, particularly in fast-moving sectors like artificial intelligence.