Oxford University to Return Ancestral Remains of 39 Naga Individuals to Nagaland

Oxford University has confirmed that it will send back the skeletal remains of 39 Naga individuals, collected during the colonial era, to the Indian state of Nagaland. The remains are currently housed in the university's museum and have been the subject of a long‑standing demand by Naga community leaders for repatriation.
The university’s decision follows recent consultations with representatives of the Naga tribes and cultural heritage experts, who emphasized the importance of returning ancestral remains to their rightful homes. Officials said the handover will be conducted in coordination with Nagaland’s Department of Cultural Affairs to ensure proper ceremonial rites.
The move is being welcomed as a step toward addressing historical grievances and strengthening cultural ties between the United Kingdom and the Naga people. Oxford has not disclosed a precise date for the transfer, but indicated that logistical arrangements are underway.