New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has called on King Charles III to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond to India during the British monarch's visit to New York. The statement has reignited the long-standing dispute over the 105-carat gem, which India has repeatedly demanded be repatriated.
Mamdani's Remarks
In a post on social media, Mamdani expressed his hope that King Charles would use his visit as an opportunity to return the diamond. 'I would encourage King Charles to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond to India,' he wrote, tagging a video of his statement. The mayor's comments come as the British monarch is scheduled to visit New York as part of his overseas engagements.
Historical Context
The Koh-i-Noor diamond, which originated in India, was acquired by the British East India Company in the 19th century and eventually became part of the British Crown Jewels. India has persistently demanded its return, arguing that it was taken illegally during colonial rule. The British government, however, has maintained that the diamond was legally obtained under the terms of the Treaty of Lahore in 1849.
The diamond is currently set in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and is displayed in the Tower of London. Previous Indian governments have raised the issue during diplomatic meetings, but the UK has consistently resisted calls for repatriation, citing legal and historical complexities.
Reactions
Mamdani's statement has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters of repatriation have praised his stance, while critics argue that the diamond's ownership is a settled historical matter. The Indian government has not officially commented on Mamdani's remarks, but it has previously demanded the return of the diamond through diplomatic channels.
The issue of colonial-era artifacts has gained renewed attention in recent years, with several countries seeking the return of cultural treasures held in Western museums. The Koh-i-Noor remains one of the most prominent symbols of this debate.
King Charles's visit to New York is part of a broader tour aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. However, the diamond controversy is likely to overshadow his engagements, as activists and politicians continue to press for its return.
