Calling Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's remark "deeply disappointing", the vice chancellors and academicians said Parliament should remain a forum where ideas are debated with rigour and disagreements are expressed with dignity.
"To dismiss a scholar through a label rather than engage with the substance of his views risks undermining the very scientific temper that our Constitution calls upon every citizen to develop," they said in an open letter.
"Whether intended as sarcasm or political rhetoric, such a characterisation raises concerns that go far beyond one individual," the letter said.
'CRITICISE IDEAS, NOT SCHOLAR'
The vice chancellors highlighted IIT Madras Director Prof V Kamakoti's academic and research contributions, noting that he heads one of India's leading scientific and technological institutions.
The open letter was issued after Priyanka Gandhi, during a Lok Sabha debate on the Centre's proposed task force on examination reforms, reportedly referred to Prof Kamakoti as a "cow urine expert".
The signatories said the comment went beyond criticism of an individual and raised broader concerns about the treatment of scholars and the dignity of India's academic institutions.
They said Professor Kamakoti holds MS and PhD degrees in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Madras, has authored more than 150 research papers, led over 50 research and development projects, and has received honours including the DRDO Academic Excellence Award and the Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association Techno Visionary Award.
The letter also noted his role in guiding the development of India's first industry-grade microprocessor.
'SCIENTIFIC TEMPER REQUIRES OBJECTIVE EXAMINATION'
The academics argued that scientific temper is not limited to scepticism towards unconventional ideas but also includes examining claims objectively before accepting or rejecting them.
They said history has shown that several ideas initially dismissed were later scientifically validated, while many accepted beliefs were eventually disproved. The letter further warned that such remarks could discourage scientists, researchers and educators from participating in public discussions.
"Our scientists, scholars and educators deserve to know that they can participate in public debate without fear of being reduced to dismissive labels," it said.
The signatories added that while academic arguments should be challenged and evidence questioned, scholarship itself should not be diminished.
Niren, these two siblings have become the laughing stock not just in India but in the world. But there are times the world needs some laughter out of comical actions, this is one of them. - Herman Kharsati, Meghalaya on Facebook
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