Over 215 vice chancellors, former vice chancellors and academicians have voiced support for IIT Madras Director Prof V Kamakoti after Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra allegedly described him as a "cow urine expert" during a Lok Sabha debate. In an open letter, they said the remark undermined academic discourse and the dignity of India's scientific institutions.
The letter followed Priyanka Gandhi's reported comment during a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the Centre's proposed task force for examination reforms. The signatories argued that the statement was not merely a criticism of an individual but reflected a broader disregard for scholars and the country's academic institutions.
Describing the remark as "deeply disappointing", they said Parliament should remain a platform where ideas are debated with seriousness and differences are expressed respectfully. "Whether intended as sarcasm or political rhetoric, such a characterisation raises concerns that go far beyond one individual," the letter stated.
Among those who signed the letter were Nalanda University Vice Chancellor Sachin Chaturvedi, former NITI Aayog chairman Rajiv Kumar, NAAC Director Ganesan Kannabiran, former UPSC chairman D P Agarwal and former AICTE chairman Anil Sahasrabudhe.
'CRITICISE IDEAS, NOT THE SCHOLAR'
The academics highlighted Prof Kamakoti's academic achievements and research contributions, noting that he leads one of India's foremost institutions in science and technology.
They pointed out that he earned both his MS and PhD in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Madras, authored more than 150 research papers, led over 50 research and development projects, and received honours such as the DRDO Academic Excellence Award and the Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association Techno Visionary Award.
The letter also mentioned his contribution to the development of India's first industry-grade microprocessor.
The signatories stressed that, like any researcher, Prof Kamakoti has the right to present hypotheses, discuss traditional knowledge and take part in scientific debates.
"To dismiss a scholar through a label rather than engage with the substance of his views risks undermining the very scientific temper that our Constitution calls upon every citizen to develop," the letter said.
'SCIENTIFIC TEMPER DEMANDS OPEN EXAMINATION'
The academics argued that scientific temper is not only about questioning unconventional ideas but also about evaluating claims objectively before accepting or rejecting them.
They noted that history has repeatedly shown that some ideas initially dismissed were later proven correct, while many widely accepted beliefs were eventually disproved. They also warned that such remarks could discourage scientists, researchers and educators from contributing to public discourse.
"Our scientists, scholars and educators deserve to know that they can participate in public debate without fear of being reduced to dismissive labels," the letter said.
The signatories added that while academic arguments should be questioned and evidence scrutinised, scholars themselves should not be belittled.
"In a democracy, disagreement is essential. Mockery is not a substitute for reasoned engagement," the letter concluded, expressing hope that future parliamentary debates would reflect respect and informed discussion.
Prof Kamakoti had sparked controversy in January 2025 after speaking at Pongal celebrations held at a cow shelter in Chennai. During the event, he recounted the story of a 'sanyasi' who, he claimed, recovered from a high fever after consuming cow urine.
The video of the speech went viral and drew criticism from scientists, politicians and social media users.
Responding to the backlash at the time, Kamakoti said his remarks were based on published scientific literature.
