Orissa High Court Issues Notice In Plea Seeking Return Of Looted Valuables Including Kohinoor Diamond & Colonial Reparations From UK
Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice M.S. Raman, Orissa High Court
The Orissa High Court has issued notice in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by social activist Pinakpani Mohanty, which raises issues regarding national security, foreign relations, and the demands for colonial reparations.
A Bench consisting of Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice M.S. Raman issued notices to both the Union Government and the State Government, directing them to respond to the petition.
During the hearing, Advocate Srnibas Mohanty, representing the petitioner, emphasized that the issues raised in the PIL are critical to India’s national pride, historical integrity, and the pursuit of justice for millions of Indians who have suffered due to historical injustices. The State was represented by Additional Government Advocate Debasis Tripathy, while Advocate Satya Kashyap appeared on behalf of the Union of India.
In the PIL, Mohanty has urged the Court to take action against individuals who allegedly used derogatory language and insults against the Prime Minister and the Home Minister during protests that followed the tragic Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 26 innocent pilgrims lost their lives. The petition also calls for punitive measures against certain political leaders who purportedly issued threats to seize the Prime Minister’s residence during protests related to the alleged infiltration of Bangladeshi nationals into India.
A significant aspect of the petition concerns foreign relations, where Mohanty has petitioned the Court to officially label the United States of America as India’s "greatest enemy," due to what he perceives as its ongoing support for Pakistan and its broader global activities. The PIL asks the Court to direct the Indian Government to sever all trade and diplomatic ties with the U.S. in light of these concerns.
In addition to matters of national security and foreign policy, the PIL delves into India’s colonial history. Mohanty has requested the Court to order the Indian Government to press the United Kingdom for a formal apology for the atrocities committed during British colonial rule, particularly highlighting the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Bengal famine. Furthermore, the petition read, “Further, the Britishers have taken away with them (1757 1947) many valuables/jewels/gems/go Id/silver including Kohinoor Dimond (which is actually property of Lord Jagannath Puri, as it was donated by the Raja Ranjit Singh). During this Period, they have robbed/looted $ 45 trillions from India. These are to be returned. Hence, the Hon'ble Court is to be pleased to give order/necessary directions to the concerned authorities to take appropriate measures for the return of these things from the U.K Govt.”
Another key component of the PIL addresses the circumstances surrounding India’s independence in 1947. The petition seeks clarity from the Union Government on the role played by key figures such as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the Indian National Army (INA), revolutionary movements, and the armed forces mutinies during the struggle for independence. The PIL references statements made by former British Prime Minister Clement Attlee, which Mohanty believes could shed light on the true history of India’s independence.
The Court has scheduled further hearings after the respondents file their respective replies to the PIL.
Cause Title: Pinakpani Mohanty v. Union Of India & Ors.