Kohima: The Naga National Council and the Federal Government of Nagaland filed a formal challenge against the University of Oxford. They want the repatriation of 39 ancestral remains held at the Pitt Rivers Museum stopped immediately. The group submitted a demand to Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey on November 4. It questions the university’s July 13, 2026, decision. The group demands the suspension of all physical transfers, including packing and transport.
The NNC-FGN clarified that they do not reject repatriation. They doubt the authority behind the university's decision. The council pointed to their institutional history, citing the 1946 formation of the NNC, the 1947 independence declaration, the 1951 plebiscite, and the 1956 adoption of the Naga Yezhabo. They argued the Indo-Naga political question remains unresolved. The remains cannot be treated merely as cultural heritage. They are deeply political. The council stated, "Naga national political and institutional position" must be recognized in this process.
Oxford relied on Article 371A of the Constitution to justify the transfer, claiming tribal hohos hold authority over the remains. The NNC-FGN rejected this. They claim authority is inherent to their sovereign status. The group wants full disclosure of all resolutions, mandates, and communications regarding the claim. They questioned how the museum engaged with facilitators and how those roles evolved into formal claims.
The FGN also wants an independent review by parties unconnected to the original recommendation. They raised concerns about the remains' future scientific value, noting these items are scarce and could provide significant research opportunities for Naga scholars. The group demanded a comprehensive response and direct engagement. They expect the university to hold off on any irreversible actions until these grievances are addressed.
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