RSS Chief Highlights Population Concerns
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, speaking at the Kathale Kul Sammelan in Nagpur, expressed concerns over India’s declining fertility rate. He stated that for a society to sustain itself, its fertility rate must remain above 2.1, ideally around 3. Citing historical examples of societies vanishing due to low fertility, he emphasized the importance of population stability to preserve India’s heritage and civilization.
Bhagwat referenced India’s population policies of 1998 and 2002, asserting that a shrinking population threatens societal survival. “The population should not fall below 2.1. Science supports maintaining a rate of two or three for societal survival,” he said.
Owaisi’s Fiery Rebuttal
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi responded sharply, questioning if the RSS would financially support families having more children. Mocking the idea, he said, “Will Bhagwat deposit ₹1,500 per child in the parents’ accounts?” Owaisi criticized the focus on fertility rates, pointing out more pressing issues like inflation, unemployment, and farmer distress.
Congress Leader Calls Out Contradictions
Congress leader Tariq Anwar accused the BJP and RSS of inconsistent narratives. He highlighted the contradiction between Bhagwat’s remarks and BJP’s advocacy for a two-child policy, stating, “The Sangh family seems confused.”
BJP Defends Bhagwat’s Remarks
Union Minister Giriraj Singh supported Bhagwat, while targeting Owaisi for prioritizing issues like Palestine over the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh. Singh called for attention to Hindus’ struggles, tying Bhagwat’s statements to broader cultural and demographic concerns.
Broader Implications
Bhagwat’s remarks have reignited debates about India’s population dynamics amidst pressing socio-economic challenges. While advocates argue for sustaining population growth to secure economic and cultural stability, critics question the practicality of such goals in a resource-strapped nation.