An open letter says political criticism should not undermine academic scholarship
More than 215 vice chancellors, former vice chancellors and academicians have issued an open letter criticising Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her reported remarks targeting IIT Madras Director Professor V. Kamakoti, calling the comments disrespectful to India’s academic community.
The signatories said describing the IIT Madras Director as a “gaumutra expert” instead of engaging with his views undermines scientific discourse and demeans academic scholarship.
‘Criticise ideas, not scholars’
In the three-page letter, the academics said disagreement should be based on evidence and arguments rather than personal labels.
“Whether intended as sarcasm or political rhetoric, such a characterization raises concerns that go far beyond one individual.”
The letter further stated that reducing accomplished scientists to dismissive labels discourages scholars from participating in public debate.
“Criticise their arguments, challenge their evidence, demand higher standards of proof, but do not diminish scholarship itself.”
Academics highlight Kamakoti’s achievements
The signatories highlighted Professor Kamakoti’s academic credentials, noting that he holds M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from IIT Madras, has published more than 150 research papers, contributed to over 50 research and development projects, and played a key role in developing India’s first industry-grade microprocessor.
They also pointed to his numerous honours, including the DRDO Academic Excellence Award and the Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association Techno Visionary Award.
The letter argued that history has repeatedly shown that scientific inquiry should remain open to scrutiny rather than ridicule.
Row over Parliament remarks
The controversy stems from Priyanka Gandhi’s speech during the debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha.
Although she did not mention Professor Kamakoti by name, her remarks were widely interpreted as referring to the IIT Madras Director, who is also a member of the Centre’s newly constituted task force on examination reforms.
The remarks have since triggered a sharp debate, with several academics urging political leaders to uphold respect for institutions and scientific scholarship.
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