London: The online sale of skulls of Naga humans in Britain has shocked everyone. 'Naga human skull' was being sold 'live online' in an auction house here. On receiving the information, a strong objection was raised from India's side. After this, now the skull of Naga man has been removed from the list of online sale. The auction house has taken this step after India's protest on this issue.
Let us tell you that Swan auction house in Testsworth, Oxfordshire in Britain has a collection of skulls and other remains obtained from all over the world under its 'The Curious Collector Sale, Antiquarian Books, Manuscripts and Paintings'. '19th Century Horned Naga Human Skull, Naga Tribe' was listed for the sale at lot number 64. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio had protested against its sale and sought the intervention of Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to stop this sale. After this India lodged its protest and its sale was stopped.
The price of one skull was up to Rs 43 lakh
The Naga man skull which was being sold online in Britain had a minimum price ranging from Rs 2.30 lakh to Rs 43 lakh. Rio wrote in his letter, “The news of the proposal to auction Naga human skulls in Britain has had a negative impact on all sections of people, as this is a very emotional and sacred matter for our people. It has been the traditional practice of our people to treat the remains of the departed with the utmost respect and honor.” After the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) raised concerns over the matter, Rio asked the External Affairs Minister to take up the matter with the Indian High Commission in London. Requested to lift. So that steps can be taken to ensure that the auction of the skull is stopped.
Auction violates UN rules
Demand to send Naga skull back to India
Barat FNR directly contacted the auction house to condemn the sale and demanded that the item be returned to Nagaland. The organization is one of many ethnic origin groups around the world. The organization is currently in talks with the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford regarding artefacts held in its collection. Museum director Laura van Brockhoven told the BBC she was “displeased” that some of these items would be auctioned. “The fact that these objects were taken and put up for sale is truly tragic, outrageous and unconscionable,” Brockhoven said. “We know that these remains were collected in the 19th and 20th centuries. They may have been made, but their sale in 2024 is quite surprising.'' Swan auction house has been contacted for comment. (Language)
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