The Hindu : National : Otis to file case to get back memorabilia

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Otis to file case to get back memorabilia

New York: U.S.-based collector James Otis, owner of the five items belonging to Mahatma Gandhi that were auctioned off by the Antiquorum Auctioneers for $1.8 million, has said he would file a case in the New York State Supreme Court in an effort get the items back.

Talking to PTI on Friday, Mr. Otis said his lawyers were finalising the details. He did not say on what grounds he would be seeking the items back. Mahatma Gandhi’s iconic round eye glasses and other personal belongings — a pocket watch, sandals, glasses, a bowl and a plate — were bought by Indian liquor baron Vijay Mallya recently in an auction here.

Asked whether he would donate the items to India, Mr. Otis said he had made the proposal to the Indian government to increase allocation for the poor and for a 78-nation tour of the Gandhi’s items to promote his principle of non-violence. He said he had received no formal response to the proposal. He would continue negotiations with the government, he said.

Asked how many more items he had, he said: “Quite a few. But I am not sharing [details] with you at this time.” — PTI

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