As a last-ditch attempt, India has asked its diplomats in the United States to try their best to stop the auction of legendary Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi's personal belongings, which is to go under the hammer in New York Thursday.

Sources in External Affairs Ministry said Wednesday that the government has clearly directed the officials in the United States to make all out efforts to stop the auction of Gandhi's personal items as it is a matter of "national prestige".

"India may also approach the U.S. on diplomatic channels to stop the auction after an Indian court yesterday passed an interim injunction order to prevent the prized articles from being put under the hammer," said the sources on condition of anonymity.

Among the items that are to be auctioned are Gandhi's ionic pocket watch, glasses, a plate, bowl and a pair of sandals. These are being owned by one New York-based James Otis.

India's Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni had earlier warned that the Ministry of External Affairs is going to take up with the U.S. State Department the issue with an aim of stalling the auction at Antiquoroum Auctioneeer in New York.

(Xinhua News Agency March 5, 2009)