The Vice Chancellor of Jodhpur Agriculture University, VS Jaitawat, has expressed strong disapproval of remarks made by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra regarding the Director of IIT Madras, V Kamakoti. During a recent discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, Jaitawat stated that such comments are “not acceptable from any perspective.” He highlighted Kamakoti’s significant contributions to academia and the scientific community.

Calls for Respect Towards Academic Professionals

Jaitawat specifically remarked on the inappropriate nature of mocking a recognised academic figure in a parliamentary setting. He mentioned that Kamakoti, who has received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, has published over 150 research papers in prominent journals and has played a pivotal role in various developmental research initiatives in India. According to Jaitawat, any sarcastic jibe against such a respected individual should be retracted to maintain the integrity of scholarly dialogue.

In his statement, he referred to an alleged comment by Gandhi that labeled Kamakoti as a “gaumutra specialist,” noting that this type of reference is not conducive to a healthy democratic discourse. Jaitawat emphasised that while discussions concerning traditional practices like cow urine could be warranted, deriding academics is counterproductive and should be discouraged.

Furthermore, he affirmed the importance of recognising and respecting India’s legacy in traditional knowledge systems. He stated that India’s scientific heritage is extensive and has made significant contributions to various fields including astronomy, architecture, and health sciences. Jaitawat underscored that the knowledge rooted in such traditions should be approached with respect and consideration.

Open Letter from Academics

An open letter has been addressed to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra by several vice chancellors, former vice chancellors, and prominent academics expressing their “deep disappointment” with her comment regarding V Kamakoti. The letter points out that characterising Kamakoti as a “gaumutra expert” undermines serious academic discourse and fails to reflect the integrity of the country’s educational system.

The letter elaborates that whether intended as sarcasm or political rhetoric, the comment extended beyond individual criticism, adversely impacting the nation’s academic environment. It emphasised that such remarks should be avoided as they reflect poorly on India’s commitment to cultivating an environment conducive to scientific inquiry.

Highlighting Kamakoti’s impressive qualifications, the letter reiterated his academic achievements, which include an MS and a PhD in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Madras, alongside his participation in over 50 research and development projects. Furthermore, they praised him for being instrumental in the innovation of India’s first industry-grade microprocessor, calling him one of the leading intellects in the country.

Concerns Over Academic Integrity

The academics who signed the letter called for a respectful dialogue surrounding public figures in the academic realm, stressing that mocking remarks should not be part of any political discourse. They argued that undermining academic professionals erodes the foundation of scholarly communication and diminishes the prestige of educational institutions.

Jaitawat’s strong objections echo a broader concern within the academic community about the treatment of educators and researchers in political dialogue. As debates continue regarding the intersection of politics and science, the call for maintaining respect and accountability in discussions about academics remains paramount.

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