Indian-Origin AI Startup CEO Claims $3 Million Blackmail Attempt

The extortion claims have unfolded against the backdrop of Giga’s rising profile in the generative AI space. Founded in 2023 by Vummadi and fellow IIT Kharagpur alumnus Esha Manideep, the startup develops voice-based AI agents for enterprise clients and recently secured a $61 million Series A funding round led by Redpoint Ventures.

Vummadi emphasised that the extortion efforts coincide with the firm’s growing visibility and have been reported to law enforcement, with the company pledging to pursue appropriate legal action against those responsible.

Complicating the situation, several former employees have publicly aired criticisms of Giga’s internal practices, alleging issues ranging from inflated revenue claims to poor working conditions.

One ex-staffer described the work environment as “toxic,” citing long hours and unmet compensation promises.

Vummadi has categorically denied these accusations, calling them “false and defamatory” and asserting that the data being wielded in the extortion attempt is being manipulated out of context to harm the business.