Diamond

India demanding return of Koh i Noor diamond

Image source: www.thepicky.com
Koh i Noor diamond on the Crown of Queen Elizabeth

The Indian government is demanding the return of the Koh i Noor diamond from Britain as part of an international campaign backed by the United Nations for the return of historic treasures to several countries, including Mexico, Greece, Turkey and Egypt.

The diamond has been in British possession since East India Company forces in India defeated the Maharaja of Punjab in 1849 and forced him to hand it over to Queen Victoria as a tribute.
 
India, which has been calling for the diamond to be handed over to it for many years, claims it was owned by several Mughal emperors and Maharajas before being seized by the British, was illegally acquired and wants it returned along with other treasures taken during colonial rule.
 
A spokesman for the British High Commission in New Delhi said the government rejects India's claim and said the diamond had been "legitimately acquired." Its ownership was "non-negotiable," according to a report in The Daily Telegraph.
 
The 105-carat gem, which was once the largest diamond in the world, is set in the British Crown Jewels.
 
The gemstone has only been worn by female royals because the stone is feared to carry a curse when owned by men.
 
According to the legend, "He who owns this diamond will own the world, but will also know all its misfortunes. Only God or Woman can wear it with impunity."