Bahwan Tribe demands NTU return ancestral remains

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Bunun people, specifically the Bahwan Tribe, have demanded that National Taiwan University (NTU) return ancestral remains taken from a public cemetery 63 years ago. The tribe alleges that NTU is evading its historical responsibilities, leading to disputes.

This controversy dates back to the 1960s when NTU's College of Medicine Physical Anthropology Research Team removed remains from the tribe’s 'Lilieq' cemetery without authorization for research purposes.

The 'Return Bahwan Bunun Ancestors' Remains Committee' approached the Executive Yuan on November 15, urging the government and NTU to acknowledge historical injustices and return the remains. However, their request was met with disappointment as NTU President Chen Wen-chang did not meet the committee, resulting in a clash between police and protesters.

NTU acknowledged using the remains for research, storing 43 boxes in its College of Medicine. The university has been in discussions with the government and legislature since the tribe's initial request in June 2017.

Savungaz Valincinan, an indigenous legislator candidate for 2024, criticized NTU for not attempting to establish a relationship with the tribe and for not covering travel expenses to Taipei.

NTU recently agreed to return the remains, build a memorial, honor the deceased as "Great Body Teachers," and offer medical, educational, and sanitary services to the tribe. However, NTU stated it could not create a foundation or provide NT$1.49 billion in compensation as a public institution, citing the Ministry of Education's funding regulations.

Taiwan recognizes 16 indigenous tribes, making up 2.5% of its population. These groups have historically faced exploitation and discrimination.

The issue of returning ancestral remains has ignited discussions in Taiwan, highlighting the need for empathy in healing historical wounds and promoting transitional justice.

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