New York Mayor Calls for Return of Koh-i-Noor Diamond from British Crown
A Bold Demand from Mayor Mamdani
New York/New Delhi: The Mayor of New York City, Joharan Mamdani, has reignited a long-standing dispute between the British monarchy and India with a bold statement. During a press conference on Wednesday, Mamdani made it clear that if he were to meet King Charles III, he would directly demand the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond instead of engaging in formalities.
Mamdani stated unequivocally, “If I get the chance to speak with the King… I will encourage him to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond.”
This call for historical justice comes as King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit New York’s One World Trade Center to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, an event that Mayor Mamdani will also attend. Typically, meetings between mayors and the British monarchy are confined to protocol and diplomacy, but Mamdani’s remarks have transformed this into a platform for ‘historical justice.’
The Koh-i-Noor: Loot or Gift?
This 105.6-carat diamond, sourced from India’s Golconda mines, symbolizes Indian cultural pride. Historical records indicate that after the Anglo-Sikh War in 1849, the East India Company coerced the 10-year-old Maharaja Duleep Singh into signing the Treaty of Lahore, which resulted in the diamond being handed over to Queen Victoria.
India has long regarded it as a “treasure of plunder,” while the British government claims it is part of a legal treaty. Echoing Mamdani’s sentiments, millions of Indians still view it as a reminder of colonial exploitation that should be returned home.