The University of Oxford Council has approved the repatriation of 39 Naga ancestral human remains held at the Pitt Rivers Museum (PRM) in the United Kingdom, marking a significant step towards returning remains taken during the colonial era to their homeland.
PRM Director Laura Van Broekhoven informed Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) convener Wati Aier that the University Council formally approved the return of the 39 remains on July 13. The Council, however, declined the repatriation of one set as there was insufficient evidence to establish that it was of Naga origin.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The repatriation is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The initiative has been pursued by the FNR and its Recover, Restore and Decolonise (RRaD) initiative, along with Naga tribal bodies.
The groups described the return as more than the repatriation of ancestral remains, saying it represents the restoration of memory, dignity and a sense of justice.
The Pitt Rivers Museum is believed to hold around 219 Naga ancestral human remains, along with more than 6,000 Naga artefacts. A Naga delegation visited the UK in 2025 to strengthen efforts for repatriation and held discussions with several British museums housing Naga artefacts and human remains.
The Angami Public Organisation is also pursuing arrangements for the dignified burial of the remains after their return.
