Surat Diamond Bourse ‘Ghost House’ Jibe Triggers Political Storm

Surat | Gujarat — A sharp political remark has ignited a fierce debate in India’s diamond capital after the Kerala Congress labelled the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB) a “ghost house,” sparking outrage among diamantaires and triggering a social media storm.

The controversy began when the party’s official handle on X claimed that the world’s largest office building—bigger than the Pentagon—remains empty three years after being inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023. The post suggested the massive complex be converted into a museum showcasing the Prime Minister’s photos and videos taken “at taxpayer’s expense.”

Kerala Congress tweeted, “INN GHOST HOUSE | The Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB) in Gujarat, India, is the world’s largest office building, spanning roughly 7.1 million square feet.Modi inaugurated it as his flagship project in 2023. Three years later it is completely empty. It reflects the state of the economy more than anything else.We have an idea. We should use this Ghost house as Modi’s museum to show case all the photos, videos he took at tax payer’s expense in the last two decades.”

https://x.com/inckerala/status/2040769039581245446?s=48&t=7YBGhtD68IG2CBfHQpZ5GQ

The remark immediately triggered sharp reactions from industry stakeholders and social media users, many calling the claim misleading and politically motivated.

Diamond Traders Push Back

Responding to the viral post, Surat-based entrepreneur Raju Patel defended the project, stating, “This is made of public money? Not a single penny was spent by the government. Even surrounding roads were built from funds received as land cost from the project. Around 4,200 offices cannot be transferred in such a short time. Stop spreading fake information.”

Industry leaders echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the relocation of thousands of diamond firms from Mumbai to Surat is a gradual process that cannot be completed overnight.

Another user, however, amplified criticism, alleging structural shifts in the diamond trade, claiming many Gujarati diamantaires now operate from Dubai while sending rough diamonds to India only for job work. The comment reflected a broader debate about changing global trade dynamics in the sector.

Auctions Signal Activity at SDB

Amid the heated political exchange, the SDB has begun hosting major industry events. For the first time since its inauguration, Dubai-based diamond companies owned by Gujarati traders held rough diamond viewings and auctions at the bourse.

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi announced during a felicitation ceremony that the first tender held last week saw rough diamond sales worth nearly ₹500 crore.

“This is a proud moment for Gujarat and the diamond industry. The Surat Diamond Bourse is steadily emerging as a global hub,” Sanghavi said.

Transition Phase or Political Flashpoint?

The SDB, spanning about 7.1 million square feet, was envisioned as a one-stop hub to bring thousands of diamond traders under one roof and reduce dependence on Mumbai. However, industry insiders say the shift involves complex logistics, regulatory clearances, and global trade realignments.

Experts believe the current controversy highlights both political polarisation and the pressures facing the diamond industry amid global economic uncertainty.

While critics question occupancy levels, traders insist the bourse is entering its operational phase. With auctions now underway and international participation growing, industry leaders argue the narrative may soon shift from “ghost house” to global trading hub.