Professor V. Kamakoti, the Director of IIT Madras, has stirred a debate with his statement endorsing the medicinal properties of cow urine. While he has cited traditional and anecdotal evidence to support his claims, the remarks have sparked criticism from scientific and political circles, leading to a nationwide discussion.
The Controversial Remark
During an event at a Go Samrakshana Sala, Kamakoti shared an incident about a sanyasi using cow urine to cure a high fever. He mentioned its potential anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive properties and suggested it could aid conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
Has This Happened Before IIT Madras?
This is not the first time cow urine has been highlighted for its medicinal benefits. In the past:
- In India: In 2020, Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog chairman Vallabhbhai Kathiria claimed that cow urine and dung could help prevent and cure diseases, including COVID-19. However, these claims were widely criticized by scientists and debunked due to lack of evidence.
- Globally: In African countries like Kenya, certain communities have promoted the use of cow urine for traditional medicine, including treating wounds and infections. However, global health organizations have refrained from endorsing such practices due to insufficient research.
Political Reactions
Several political figures have reacted to Kamakoti’s remarks:
- DMK Leader TKS Elangovan: Called the statement unscientific and questioned its relevance in modern times.
- Congress MP Karti P. Chidambaram: Criticized the IIT Director for promoting pseudoscience instead of focusing on evidence-based research.
However, some leaders from the BJP and allied organizations supported Kamakoti, emphasizing the significance of exploring India’s traditional knowledge systems.
Support for the Theory Outside India
Internationally, cow urine as a health remedy is largely met with skepticism. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) do not endorse its use due to the lack of peer-reviewed scientific studies.
However, some traditional medicine practitioners in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Indonesia have integrated cow urine into their practices.
They claim benefits based on cultural practices, but these remain anecdotal and unverified.
Kamakoti’s Defense
In response to the backlash, Kamakoti clarified that his remarks were personal and rooted in tradition rather than being politically motivated.
He added that he personally consumes “panchagavyam,” a traditional mixture that includes cow urine, and believes in its benefits.
He also pointed out that research on this subject would depend on the interest of faculty at IIT Madras.
Conclusion
The remarks by IIT Madras Director have reignited discussions about the balance between traditional beliefs and evidence-based science.
While some argue for exploring the potential of traditional remedies, others stress the need for rigorous scientific validation.
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BY – NIKITA
