Kathmandu: So far, 198 archeological artifacts stolen from Nepal have been returned from abroad, according to the Department of Archeology.
According to National News Agency Nepal, these artifacts were brought back by the Department in a coordinated effort with national and international heritage activists, as stated by Sarita Subedi, an Archeological Officer. The Nepali diaspora and organizations dedicated to heritage conservation also played a significant role in this initiative.
Subedi indicated that the retrieval of these artifacts was made possible through collaboration with organizations in the USA and European countries. As per international law, if a country’s heritage is discovered in another nation, a legal process is initiated to facilitate its return.
The returned items include wood carvings, stone carvings, architectures, and statues initially created in Nepal and later smuggled or stolen abroad. These are claimed and repatriated when found, based on provided information and supporting evidence.
Some of the retrieved artifacts, particularly idols of gods and goddesses, have been reinstated in their original religious locations. The country where the artifacts are discovered, whether in museums, auction houses, or private collections, is responsible for covering the shipping costs to return them to their country of origin.