IIT Madras Director's remark on cow urine's medicinal value sparks controversy
Criticised for spreading pseudoscience
Chennai: IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti has stirred debate by praising the medicinal properties of cow urine during an event at a 'Go Samrakshana Sala' on Maatu Pongal in Chennai. Kamakoti claimed cow urine possesses anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive benefits, citing its potential to treat ailments like Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
In a viral video, Kamakoti narrated an anecdote of an ascetic who reportedly cured a fever by consuming cow urine. His statements were made in the context of advocating for organic farming and the protection of indigenous cattle breeds.
The remarks have drawn criticism from political leaders and rationalist groups. DMK leader TKS Elangovan accused the central government of promoting pseudoscience, while Congress MP Karti Chidambaram called the comments unbecoming of an academician. Dravidar Kazhagam leader Kali Poongundran referred to studies suggesting cow urine's harmful effects, urging the public not to believe such claims.
However, Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai defended Kamakoti, stating his remarks were personal and not intended as a directive. Sources close to Kamakoti clarified that his comments were rooted in his personal experiences as an organic farmer.
At the event, Kamakoti also criticised the British colonial education system, alleging it undermined indigenous cattle breeds and farming practices. Highlighting the role of native cows in organic farming, he emphasised the environmental, nutritional, and economic benefits of protecting them.
Kamakoti, who has been the director of IIT Madras since January 2022, is a recipient of the DRDO Academy Excellence Award for his contributions to scientific research and technology development.
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'Strong evidence' available against Saif attacker, police tell court while opposing his bail plea
Mumbai, Jul 25 (PTI): Police have opposed the bail plea of the Bangladeshi national arrested for allegedly stabbing Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan with a knife and injuring him at his home here in January this year, telling a Mumbai court there was "strong evidence" against the accused.
Citing a Forensic Science Laboratory report, police reiterated before the sessions court their earlier claim knife fragments that got lodged near the actor's spine during the attack as well as a part found at the crime spot have matched with the weapon recovered from the accused, Shariful Islam.
These three pieces were part of the same weapon (knife) used to attack the filmstar, the police said in a written response to the accused's plea submitted in the court on Thursday (July 24).
Khan was repeatedly stabbed with a knife by an intruder inside his 12th floor apartment in upscale Bandra on January 16 during a robbery attempt.
The 54-year-old actor underwent surgery at Lilavati Hospital to remove a piece of knife that got lodged near his spine during the attack. He was discharged from the private hospital after five days.
Shariful Islam, a Bangladeshi national, was arrested two days later for allegedly stabbing Khan.
The police, in their response, highlighted that the accused is a Bangladeshi citizen residing illegally in India.
If granted bail, there was a possibility that he may flee India and not appear before the court during the trial. The crime committed by the accused is of a "very serious nature, and strong evidence" is available against him, they argued.
In his bail plea, filed through advocate Vipul Dushing, the accused asserted he was innocent and had no prior criminal record.
Investigation into the case has practically concluded with only the filing of a chargesheet pending, the accused contended while seeking bail.
The alleged attacker has been booked under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections related to house trespass, robbery and dacoity with attempt to cause death or grievous injury.
