Dignity, Identity, and Sacred Trust

FNR affirms repatriation belongs to the Naga people

Kohima, June 16 (MExN): The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has expressed “reverence and gratitude” to the Naga people for their collective support and commitment to the ongoing effort to repatriate ancestral human remains held by the Pitt Rivers Museum (PRM) at Oxford University, United Kingdom.

In a statement issued on June 16, the FNR said that between June 8 and 14, a Naga Delegation was invited by Pitt Rivers Museum (PRM) to Oxford to discuss “the future of the Naga ancestral remains that the PRM hold within their collections.” It called the delegation’s journey “not merely an act of reclaiming how to retrieve Naga human remains—it is a profound restoration of dignity, identity, and sacred trust.”

The FNR said that the repatriation process reflects “a deeply rooted understanding between the Naga people and the custodians of these ancestral remains, forged through a transparent and inclusive process of building trust.” It said that the tribes whose remains are housed at the museum “are part of this journey, ensuring that the voices, wisdom, and traditions of our people have guided each step.”

“We express our sincere gratitude to the Naga Delegation comprising of leaders of the Naga Tribe Hohos, the FNR, and the Recover, Restore, and Decolonise (RRaD) team, whose dedication and moral clarity have steered this process forward. Their tireless efforts have ensured that this repatriation is not simply a return of remains, but a reclaiming of our rightful narrative—a narrative of dignity, belonging, and ancestral continuity,” the FNR said.

It extended thanks to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio “for his invaluable support in making this process materialize,” and acknowledged the role of Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha, “whose timely intervention in securing visas for the Naga delegation was instrumental.”

“The accommodation, subsistence, travel and practical logistics provided by the PRM for the Naga Delegation is deeply appreciated. The cooperation and financial assistance extended by the tribal hohos has further strengthened this mission, demonstrating the unity and generosity that define the Naga people,” the statement added.

The FNR especially thanked the Naga public, stating, “Your steadfast support has been, and will continue to be, the foundation upon which this process moves forward. The journey of repatriation has only begun, and the task ahead remains crucial. FNR/RRaD will always rely on your solidarity to bring this mission to its full consummation.”

Clarifying that the initiative is not exclusive to any single entity, the forum stated, “It must be clearly understood that this repatriation process is not the monopoly of the FNR. It does not belong to any single entity or institution—it is for the Naga people.”

“This sacred responsibility calls for the collective engagement and participation of all, ensuring that it remains rooted in the will and wisdom of our communities. May this process of repatriation serve as a beacon of hope—not only for the Naga people but for all Indigenous Peoples and Nations seeking justice and restoration,” the FNR noted.

The FNR added, “As we look forward to welcoming our ancestors home, with a heightened common-will, we renew our pledge to uphold their legacy with integrity, wisdom, and unwavering respect.”