NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, citing his Indian heritage, called for the return of the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond to India just hours before meeting King Charles III at a solemn ceremony honoring victims of the September 11 attacks, reigniting a long-standing international dispute over one of the world's most famous gemstones.

The 105-carat diamond, now part of the British Crown Jewels, has been a symbol of colonial legacy and contested ownership for decades. India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan have all claimed historical rights to the stone, which British forces acquired in the 19th century during colonial rule. Mamdani's comments, made at a press conference, thrust the sensitive cultural issue into the spotlight amid an otherwise diplomatic occasion.

"If I were to speak to the King separately from the purpose of the event, I would probably encourage him to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond," Mamdani said, acknowledging the meeting's focus on honoring 9/11 victims while expressing his personal view. The mayor, who has Indian roots, framed the request as part of broader conversations about historical justice and cultural repatriation.

The Koh-i-Noor, meaning "Mountain of Light" in Persian, has a storied and often violent history spanning centuries. Originally mined in India, it passed through various empires before becoming part of the British Crown Jewels following the annexation........

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