Drink cow urine if you wish but don't promote anti-science ideas: AIADMK leader to IIT-Madras chief

CHENNAI: Senior AIADMK leader D Jayakumar criticised IIT-M director V Kamakoti for his remarks that cow urine (komiyam) has antibacterial properties, stating that if the head of the premier institute wishes to drink it, he is free to do so but should refrain from promoting such anti-scientific ideas.

“The Indian Veterinary Research Institute of the reputed Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) conducted research and found that cow urine contains harmful bacteria, advising against human consumption. If he (Kamakoti) wants to drink it, let him do so, but he should stop spreading such claims (among the public),” AIADMK former minister Jayakumar said in response to a question regarding Kamakoti’s comments during a Pongal festival programme on January 15 at Mylapore in Chennai.

Also Read: Cow urine can contain harmful E coli, IIT-M director Kamakoti’s remarks misleading: Doctors’ association

The issue gained significant attention after a video clip of Kamakoti's remarks on cow urine went viral. Joining the debate, Jayakumar lambasted the IIT-M director and advised him not to spread such false information that would be harmful to society at large.

State minister K Ponmudy, rationalists, and doctors strongly condemned Kamakoti for his “irrational remarks” and called for his resignation. However, Kamakoti reiterated his statements at a press conference on Monday and claimed that research papers supported his theory. Senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan extended her support for Kamakoti, adding that cow urine was not as harmful as liquor sold in Tasmac outlets.

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