The Koh-i-Noor diamond's history is complex and contested, making it difficult to definitively say whether it was stolen from India.
The diamond has been part of the Indian royal treasury for centuries. It was acquired by the Mughal emperor Babur in the 16th century.
During the British colonial era, the diamond was acquired by the British East India Company and eventually came into the possession of the British Crown.
The British government claims that the diamond was a gift to Queen Victoria, while many in India argue that it was taken by force.
India has officially requested the return of the Koh-i-Noor, but the British government has refused, citing its legal ownership.
Here's a breakdown of the different perspectives:
- The British perspective: They argue that the diamond was a gift from the Sikh ruler Duleep Singh to Queen Victoria in 1849. They assert that Duleep Singh was a legitimate ruler and had the right to give away the diamond.
- The Indian perspective: Many Indians believe that the diamond was forcefully taken by the British during the colonial era. They argue that Duleep Singh was a young boy at the time and was pressured into giving away the diamond. They also point to the fact that the diamond was part of the Indian royal treasury for centuries before the British arrived.
The controversy surrounding the ownership of the Koh-i-Noor highlights the complex legacy of colonialism and the enduring debate about restitution of cultural artifacts.
