# Repatriation of Naga ancestral remains from Oxford

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/repatriation-of-naga-ancestral-remains-from-oxford
> Updated: 2026-09-09T01:28:02.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2.

The University of Oxford Council has approved the repatriation of 39 Naga ancestral remains from the Pitt Rivers Museum to Nagaland, India. The remains, which include items such as skull fragments, skin, and hair, were largely collected by British colonial administrators during the early 20th century.

The decision follows a six-year effort led by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and the Recover, Restore and Decolonise (RRaD) initiative. While the Council approved the return of 39 specific pieces, it declined one additional set because its Naga origin could not be definitively established.

Naga community leaders and tribal elders view the repatriation as a vital step toward decolonization, healing, and dignity. A delegation is expected to accompany the remains during their journey, and plans are underway to establish a monument of healing and peace following the return of the ancestors.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: Pitt Rivers Museum to return 39 Naga ancestral remains to Nagaland

The Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford will return 39 Naga ancestral remains to Nagaland following years of negotiations led by community representatives and decolonization advocates.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pitt-rivers-museum-to-return-39-naga-ancestral-remains-to-nagaland

### 2026-09-05: University of Oxford to repatriate 39 Naga ancestral remains

The University of Oxford will return 39 Naga ancestral remains to Nagaland, India, following a six-year repatriation effort to address colonial-era losses and aid community healing.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pitt-rivers-museum-to-repatriate-39-naga-ancestral-remains

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Cite as: Repatriation of Naga ancestral remains from Oxford. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/repatriation-of-naga-ancestral-remains-from-oxford