A technology entrepreneur from Bengaluru has alleged that his patented AI-powered wearable device went missing during a major AI summit held in New Delhi, raising serious concerns about startup protection and event accountability.
According to the founder, he had invested significantly in flights, accommodation, product logistics, and exhibition fees to showcase his innovation at the high-profile summit. The wearable device — described as a patented AI-based solution designed for real-time monitoring and smart data integration — was reportedly shipped ahead of the event as part of the official exhibition setup. However, upon arrival at the venue, the founder claims he discovered that the products had “disappeared” from the designated stall area.
The entrepreneur alleges that despite coordinating with event organizers and logistics handlers, there was no clear explanation provided regarding the missing devices. He has stated that the wearable was not just a prototype but a commercially valuable product backed by intellectual property protection. The loss, he says, is not only financial but also reputational, as the summit was meant to attract investors and strategic partners.
Industry observers note that startups often bear high costs to participate in such national-level summits, expecting visibility, networking opportunities, and investor engagement. Incidents like these highlight the vulnerability of early-stage innovators who rely heavily on event organizers to ensure security and proper handling of showcased products.
The founder is now reportedly considering legal options and filing formal complaints, while also urging stronger protection mechanisms for exhibitors at technology events. As India positions itself as a global AI innovation hub, the incident raises broader questions about safeguarding intellectual property and ensuring trust within the startup ecosystem.
The organizers of the summit have yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations.
