Mamdani’s Advice to Royals: Give That Priceless Diamond Back to India
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Mayor Zohran Mamdani distanced himself from extensive interaction with King Charles III, stating he would only attend a 9/11 Memorial ceremony alongside other officials during the royal visit.
- When asked what he would say to King Charles in a private meeting, Mamdani said he would encourage the return of the Koh-i-Noor Diamond, a 105.6-carat gem taken from India during British colonial rule.
- Mamdani's background, with parents who are prominent critics of colonialism and his identity as the city's first democratic socialist mayor, informs his stance on colonial legacy issues like the diamond.
- The Koh-i-Noor Diamond remains a contentious symbol, with India actively lobbying for its return from the British crown jewels.
