New Delhi, 30 July (H.S.): Several eminent scientists and academicians from across the country on Thursday issued an open letter addressed to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, urging her to maintain the dignity of public discourse in Parliament.

The letter stated that the credibility of democratic institutions depends on the manner in which disagreements and criticism are expressed in public life, particularly through the use of appropriate language and reasoned arguments.

The signatories specifically expressed concern over the alleged remarks made against IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti. They said that disagreement with the views of any scientist or academic is natural, but dismissing an individual solely on the basis of their designation, position or personal identity is not in line with healthy democratic traditions. They emphasised that the views of scientists and academicians should be evaluated on the basis of facts, research and evidence.

Referring to Article 51A(h) of the Constitution, the letter stated that it is the fundamental duty of every citizen to develop scientific temper, humanism and a spirit of inquiry and reform. In this context, public representatives are also expected to express their views on scientific matters responsibly, with balance and based on facts.

The signatories said that scientists and academicians should be provided with a respectful environment where they can express their opinions without facing personal attacks or ridicule. They added that if there is any disagreement with a scientific opinion, it should be addressed through research, evidence and logical debate rather than personal remarks or political sarcasm.

The letter further stated that turning complex scientific issues such as climate change, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, public health and energy into subjects of political mockery deprives society of meaningful and informed discussions. Serious deliberations and expert opinions on such matters are essential for democratic decision-making.

The scientists and academicians clarified that democracy provides complete space for disagreement and criticism, but disagreement should not be transformed into personal ridicule. They urged public representatives to adopt responsible language, dignified conduct and fact-based dialogue so that Parliament continues to remain a platform for healthy and constructive debates.

The letter expressed hope that discussions on scientific issues in Parliament and public life in the future would be based on facts, evidence and mutual respect. The open letter was issued under the coordination of several scientists and academicians, including Prof. G.D. Yadav and Prof. Pankaj Mittal.

It may be noted that on Tuesday, during a discussion on the bill related to preventing paper leaks in the Lok Sabha, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had allegedly referred to IIT Madras Director Professor V. Kamakoti as a “cow urine expert” during her speech. The remark triggered a major controversy among political parties and members of the academic community.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar