India's culture ministry issued a legal notice to Sotheby's Hong Kong and an heir of a British colonial landowner, halting the auction of ancient Piprahwa gems. The ministry claims the gems, believed to contain Buddha's remains, are sacred and their sale violates Indian and international law. The auction, scheduled for May 7th, is expected to fetch £9.7m. India demands the gems' repatriation, a public apology, and full disclosure of provenance. Failure to comply will result in legal action in Indian and Hong Kong courts.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.