Overview

• India's Ministry of Culture has sent a legal notice to Sotheby’s Hong Kong, demanding the cancellation of the May 7 auction of 1,800 jewels linked to the Buddha.
• The relics, unearthed in 1898 at Piprahwa, India, are classified as inalienable 'AA' antiquities under Indian law and considered sacred by Buddhists worldwide.
• Sotheby’s has acknowledged the notice and pledged to give the matter 'full attention,' but the auction remains scheduled with an estimated value of HK$100 million.
• The sale has sparked criticism from Buddhist leaders and scholars, who argue it perpetuates colonial-era exploitation and violates religious traditions.
• India is pursuing legal action, engaging Hong Kong authorities, and preparing public campaigns to secure the relics’ repatriation.