New Delhi: A petition seeking action over Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s reported reference to IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti as a “Gau Mutra Expert” during parliamentary proceedings has crossed 14,000 verified signatures, according to a press note issued by the organisers.
Launched on August 1 on Change.org, the petition has received support from academics, scientists, researchers, teachers, students and alumni across India. Overseas Indian scientists from more than 38 countries have also reportedly backed the campaign.
Addressed to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the petition objects to the expression used for Kamakoti, arguing that it amounts to a personal and disparaging remark rather than legitimate political criticism or reasoned parliamentary debate. The organisers said such language undermines the dignity of an eminent scientist and educator as well as the institution he heads.
The petition highlights Kamakoti’s contributions to computer architecture, cybersecurity, indigenous processor development through the SHAKTI project, digital technologies and national educational initiatives. It argues that public discourse should focus on scholars’ academic and professional contributions instead of resorting to personal ridicule.
The campaign has made two principal demands. First, it has urged Speaker Om Birla to take cognisance of the concern expressed by members of the academic and scientific community. Second, it has called upon the concerned MP to withdraw the expression and express regret over what the organisers described as its personal and derogatory nature.
The organisers have stressed that the petition is not intended to defend any political party, government or ideology. Instead, they described it as an appeal to preserve the dignity of India’s teachers, scientists, researchers and academic institutions.
The controversy comes amid continuing political debates over science, tradition and public policy. The petitioners have called for greater civility, evidence-based discussion and respect for scholarship in public and parliamentary discourse.
As the petition continues to gather support, the issue has also sparked a wider discussion over the boundaries of political criticism and the standards of language expected from elected representatives inside Parliament.
