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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Noida cab driver dies in car fire outside ex-lover’s wedding venue of, family alleges foul play
New Delhi: A 24-year-old cab driver from Noida, identified as Anil, died tragically after his car caught fire outside a banquet hall in East Delhi’s Gazipur on Saturday night. The incident occurred while Anil was attending a relative’s wedding at the venue.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Delhi) Abhishek Dhania, the Gazipur police station received multiple distress calls around 11 PM, reporting a vehicle engulfed in flames. "Some bystanders attempted to break the car windows and rescue him, but his body was charred beyond recognition," said Dhania. Anil was rushed to Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital, where he was declared dead.
Crime and Forensic Science Lab (FSL) teams have been deployed to investigate the cause of the fire, and a case has been registered under relevant sections of the law.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Anil was allegedly in a relationship with the bride, but her father opposed the match due to their familial ties. The woman’s family had reportedly arranged for her to marry another man, leading to Anil’s presence at the wedding venue on the night of the incident.
Family members of the deceased suspect foul play, alleging that Anil was murdered due to his past relationship with the bride. Two PCR calls made by Anil’s brothers accused the woman's family of orchestrating a conspiracy. Meanwhile, three separate calls were made to the police by the bride’s father, claiming that Anil’s relatives were resorting to violence.
Police are currently exploring multiple angles, including personal disputes and the possibility of an accident, to determine the circumstances leading to the fire. "The woman and her family have not yet been questioned due to the ongoing wedding, and the FSL reports determining the exact cause of the fire are still pending," said an officer familiar with the case.
