Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Academics Condemn Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘Gaumutra Expert’ Remark
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a member of Parliament, said a scientist named V. Kamakoti was a ‘cow urine expert’ during a debate about exam rules.
Many teachers and university leaders were upset.
They wrote a letter saying the comment was rude and could hurt science.
The letter praised Kamakoti’s work and asked Parliament to talk respectfully.
They want scientists to feel safe speaking in public.
Over 200 academics wrote an open letter condemning Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for calling IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti a ‘gaumutra expert’ during a Lok Sabha debate.
The letter warned that mocking a respected scientist undermines scientific temper and academic freedom.
Academics highlighted Kamakoti’s achievements, including leading IIT Madras and contributing to India’s first industry‑grade microprocessor.
Gandhi’s remark was made while discussing the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 and a new exam‑reform task force.
The letter urged Parliament to maintain dignified debate and evaluate arguments on merit rather than caricatures.
- Who
- Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and 215 academics
- What
- Open letter condemning her remark about IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti
- When
- Remark made on Tuesday, letter issued Friday
- Where
- Lok Sabha, New Delhi
- Why
- Academics felt the remark insulted a respected scientist and undermined scientific discourse
- Subject
- Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘gaumutra expert’ remark
- Accused Person
- V. Kamakoti
- Number of Academics
- 215
- Event
- Lok Sabha debate on exam reforms
- Response
- Open letter condemning remark
Sources
'Unfortunate if highest democratic institution insults scientist': Senior academics on Priyanka's Kamakoti remark
215 academics pen open letter, slam Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘cow urine expert’ remark on IIT Madras director V Kamakoti
Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘gaumutra expert’ jibe draws ire of over 200 academicians: ‘Mockery not a substitute’
Priyanka Gandhi's "Cow Urine" Remark Faces Huge Backlash And Recieve An Open Letter From 215 Academics
