Over 200 academics slam Priyanka Gandhi over remarks on IIT Madras Director
More than 200 vice chancellors, former vice chancellors and academics have issued an open letter criticising Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over remarks widely interpreted as referring to IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti.
The signatories said describing a scientist through a dismissive label instead of engaging with his views undermines academic discourse and discourages scholars from participating in public debate.
The letter highlighted Kamakoti’s academic credentials, noting that he holds master’s and doctoral degrees in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Madras, has published over 150 research papers and contributed to more than 50 research and development projects. It also referred to his role in developing India’s first industry-grade microprocessor and listed awards including the DRDO Academic Excellence Award and the Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association’s Techno Visionary Award.
According to the signatories, scientific progress depends on open discussion and evidence-based debate rather than personal attacks. They argued that researchers should be free to express their views without being subjected to derogatory characterisations.
Priyanka Gandhi made the remarks during a Lok Sabha discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Although she did not name Kamakoti directly, her comments were widely interpreted as being directed at him.