Academics Condemn Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Over 'Gaumutra Expert' Remark

More than 250 academicians, including serving and former vice-chancellors, signed an open letter condemning Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for her remarks during a Lok Sabha discussion on education reforms. Gandhi Vadra referred to Professor V. Kamakoti, the Director of IIT Madras, as a "gaumutra expert" while questioning the composition of a government task force on examination reforms established after the NEET-UG paper leak scandal.

The task force, headed by Nandan Nilekani, includes Kamakoti, who has previously claimed that cow urine possesses anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Signatories of the letter argued that such mockery undermines the scientific temper of the Constitution and that labeling scholars is not a substitute for reasoned engagement. Pratibha Mehta Luthra, Vice Chancellor of Gurukul Kangri University, added that targeting educators in Parliament damages India's global image and noted that research into traditional materials like gaumutra is common in pharmaceutical practice.

The Bharatiya Janata Party defended Kamakoti, highlighting his contributions to computer science and the development of India's first industry-grade microprocessor. Anurag Thakur expressed sadness over the targeting of one of India's foremost scientists. Gandhi Vadra maintained that the prime minister's advisors are removed from reality and that new committees will not solve systemic issues.