Fifty years ago | Bhutto lays claim to Kohinoor diamond
This archival piece recounts a 1976 request by Pakistani Prime Minister Z.A. Bhutto for the return of the Kohinoor diamond from Britain. The article details the historical context of the gem's acquisition and the diplomatic discussions surrounding its potential repatriation.
Why it matters
It highlights long-standing historical and diplomatic tensions regarding colonial-era artifacts and their ownership between former imperial powers and post-colonial nations.
London, September 7: Pakistan has asked Britain to return the fabulous Kohinoor diamond which is the central stone in the Queen Consort’s crown and has been in British possession since 1849.
A Government spokesman said to-day the request was made in a personal letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. James Callaghan by the Pakistani Premier, Z. A. Bhutto. It was “being considered”.
The 100 carat gem now stored in the Tower of London is acknowledged as the finest diamond in the world and became part of the crown jewels of Queen Victoria after the British annexed Punjab. The 1,000-year-old diamond was last worn by the Queen Mother at the Coronation of King George VI in 1937.
A spokesman for Queen Elizabeth to-day would not comment on the monarch’s authority to accede to President Bhutto’s request.
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