Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K. Selvaperunthagai on Monday said that IIT Madras Director, Prof. Kamakoti, should not continue as the head of the premier technology institute in India after a video of him speaking about the medicinal values of cow’s urine and encouraging people to consume it went viral on social media.
In a statement, Mr. Selvaperunthagai said that Prof. Kamakoti’s views that cow’s urine has several medicinal capacities, and can act against bacteria, fungi and can help treat digestive issues, were a result of ‘backward’ and ‘superstitious’ thinking.
“The Indian Veterinary Research Institute has tested urine samples of cows and buffaloes and has said that it is not safe for humans to drink them as it can result in severe diseases. I am surprised that Kamakoti isn’t aware of the study,” he said.
Mr. Selvaperunthagai added that the IIT M director was only repeating what many from right-wing organisations have been claiming routinely. “Despite scientific consensus that cow’s urine is not good for the human body, Prof. Kamakoti’s comments which goes against science cannot be accepted by anyone. He is unfit to continue as director of IIT Madras if he is holding such backward ideas. Considering that he has waded through several controversies in the past, it would not be right for him to continue in his position as it would affect the future of students. We cannot allow saffronisation of educational institutions,” he said.
Published - January 21, 2025 06:36 pm IST
