The Forum for Naga Reconciliation extend this message to the Naga people, whose unwavering spirit and collective commitment has been made central to the historic journey of repatriation
With deep reverence and gratitude, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) extend this message to the Naga people, whose unwavering spirit and collective commitment has been made central to the historic journey of repatriation. Between the 8th and 14th June 2025, the Naga Delegation was invited by the Pitt Rivers Museum (PRM) at Oxford University, UK, to discuss the future of the Naga ancestral remains that the PRM hold within their collections. 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.
This 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. Naga tribes, whose skeletal remains are in the PRM, are part of this journey, ensuring that the voices, wisdom, and traditions of our 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.
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.
FNR extends our sincere gratitude to Dr Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland, for his invaluable support in making this process materialise. We also extend our deepest appreciation to Mr Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, 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.
Finally, and most importantly, we offer our sincere gratitude to the Naga public for standing with us in solidarity. 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.
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.
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.
In profound gratitude,
Forum for Naga Reconciliation