UK auction house pulls Naga 'Human Skull' from online sale after outcry

A UK auction house has withdrawn a Naga Human Skull' from its lots for a live online sale on Wednesday following outcry in India over the issue.

The Swan auction house at Tetsworth in Oxfordshire had a series of skulls and other remains originating from around the world as part of The Curious Collector Sale, Antiquarian Books, Manuscripts & Paintings. The 19th Century Horned Naga Human Skull, Naga Tribe' was slotted as Lot No. 64 and resulted in protests in Nagaland, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio who sought the intervention of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to stop the hurtful sale.

The news of the proposed auction of Naga human remains in the UK has been received by all sections in a negative manner as it is a highly emotional and sacred issue for our people. It has been a traditional custom of our people to give the highest respect and honour for the remains of the demised, said Rio in his letter.

He urged the minister to take up the matter with the High Commission ..