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Over 200 academicians, including vice-chancellors and former vice-chancellors, have strongly criticised Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for her remarks against IIT Madras Director Professor V Kamakoti.

During a Lok Sabha debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, Priyanka referred to Kamakoti — a member of the high-powered task force on exam reforms headed by Nandan Nilekani — as a “gaumutra expert.” The comment was widely seen as a sarcastic dig linked to earlier statements by the professor on traditional knowledge.

In an open letter signed by 215 academics, the signatories expressed deep disappointment, stating that such characterisation undermines scientific temper and reduces a distinguished computer scientist (known for leading India’s SHAKTI microprocessor project) to a caricature. They urged public representatives to engage with ideas through reasoned debate rather than ridicule.

The letter has intensified the political controversy surrounding the composition of the exam reforms panel.