Ramdev withdraws 'stupid science' remarks against allopathy after Minister's note

New Delhi: Baba Ramdev on Sunday withdrew his statements on allopathic and modern medicines after receiving a strong-worded letter from Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan who called his remarks "inappropriate".

"We do not oppose modern medical science and allopathy. We believe that allopathy has shown immense progress in surgery and the lifesaving system and served humanity. My statement has been quoted as part of a WhatsApp message that I was reading during a meeting of volunteers. I am sorry if it has hurt anyone's sentiment," wrote Ramdev in his letter to the Union Health Minister in Hindi.

The health minister had asked yoga guru Ramdev to withdraw the derogatory remarks he allegedly made against allopathy on the same day.

"The statement disrespects the corona warriors and hurt the sentiments of the country. Your statement on allopathy can break the morale of healthcare workers and weaken our fight against Covid-19," said the Union Minister.

"You should be aware that smallpox, polio, Ebola, SARS and TB have been diagnosed and treated by allopathy medicine. In this fight against COVID, vaccination is proved to be an important weapon which is also given by allopathy," the Union Minister added.

In a video circulated on social media, Ramdev was heard saying allopathy is "a stupid science" and medicines such as remdesivir, faviflu, and other drugs approved by the Drugs Controller General of India have failed to treat Covid-19 patients.

Later in the evening, Ramdev complied, saying he was taking back his statement and that he respects all forms of medical science.

The development comes after the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Saturday condemned Ramdev's remarks and demanded action against him.

Condemning Ramdev's controversial remark, IMA had said that he (Ramdev) deserves to be prosecuted for disobeying and causing danger to the life of many by making them believe that the advice of allopathic doctors is not taken.