IndiaMART sues OpenAI over alleged exclusion from ChatGPT search results
IndiaMART sued OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT's search results system selectively excluded the Indian marketplace while other platforms remained visible, reportedly based on a US Trade Representative report. The Calcutta High Court heard the case and found prima facie evidence of selective discrimination without logic, but did not grant interim relief pending OpenAI's response.
What happened
IndiaMART, an Indian online business-to-business marketplace, filed a petition before the Calcutta High Court alleging that OpenAI had 'specifically and consciously' excluded its website and listings from appearing in ChatGPT search results, while other platforms and e-commerce marketplaces remained visible.
IndiaMART claimed OpenAI's action was based on a report from the US Trade Representative (USTR). The company stated it had never been given a chance to defend itself, despite other entities appearing on the USTR list of agencies accused of counterfeiting and piracy remaining available on ChatGPT.
Reported impact
Justice Ravi Krishan Kapur observed there could be 'a loss of goodwill, reputation and commercial injury being caused to the petitioner' through the exclusion.
Index analysis
The court stated prima facie it appeared that IndiaMART was 'selectively discriminated against and justifiably excluded without any logic', describing the exclusion as 'selective discrimination'.
Governance controls
OpenAI and ChatGPT did not appear for the hearing despite being served notice. The court refused to pass an interim order without giving OpenAI an opportunity to present its case, and scheduled the matter for hearing again on January 13, 2026.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.