The FNR (Forum for Naga Reconciliation) has conveyed a heartfelt message of gratitude to the Naga people, recognising their steadfast support and unity in the historic process of repatriating ancestral human remains from the Pitt Rivers Museum (PRM), University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
In a statement issued on Monday, the FNR described the recent visit of the Naga delegation to Oxford — held from June 8 to 14 — as a landmark step in the “profound restoration of dignity, identity, and sacred trust.” The week-long engagement, undertaken at the invitation of the PRM, focused on discussions regarding the future of Naga ancestral remains that have been part of the museum’s collection for over a century.
“The delegation’s journey to the PRM at Oxford University is 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 affirmed. The forum highlighted that it “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.”
The Forum stated that Naga tribes, whose skeletal remains are in the PRM, are part of this journey, ensuring that the voices, wisdom, and traditions of their people have guided each step. “It is a sacred duty that binds us across generations — honouring those who came before us and safeguarding our heritage for those yet to come.”
Expressing deep appreciation, the FNR acknowledged the efforts of the Naga delegation comprising leaders of various Naga Tribe Hohos, the FNR, and the Recover, Restore, and Decolonise (RRaD) team. The forum noted that their dedication and moral clarity have helped shape the repatriation as “not simply a return of remains, but a reclaiming of our rightful narrative — a narrative of dignity, belonging, and ancestral continuity.”
The FNR also extended sincere thanks to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his support, and to Advisor to the Chief Minister, Mr. Abu Metha, whose assistance in securing visas for the delegation was described as instrumental. The statement further appreciated the cooperation of the PRM in providing accommodation, subsistence, travel, and practical logistics, and acknowledged the financial contributions of the tribal hohos that strengthened the mission.
Most importantly, the FNR expressed its profound gratitude to the Naga public for their solidarity and support. “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,” the forum stated.
Emphasising that the repatriation process belongs to the Naga people as a whole, the FNR underscored that it is not the monopoly of any single entity or institution. “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,” the statement read.
The forum concluded by expressing hope that the ongoing journey will serve as a beacon for other Indigenous Peoples and Nations seeking justice and restoration. “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,” it stated.
The repatriation process, described as the “Journey of Repatriation and Healing,” remains in its early stages, with the Naga delegation’s recent visit marking a milestone in what is expected to be a continuing collaborative effort.
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