The recent statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat advocating for families to have three children has stirred political controversy, drawing sharp reactions from opposition leaders. A Congress leader has responded to Bhagwat's advice by suggesting that RSS members should be the first to adhere to this guideline, sparking a debate about personal choices, societal balance, and the role of such pronouncements in contemporary India.
Bhagwat, speaking on the final day of the '100 Years Journey of RSS: New Horizons' series, argued that a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) below 2.1 leads to societal decline, suggesting that "three children is the right thing" to maintain balance and future stability. He also mentioned that this number aligns with India's population policy. He further added that birthrates are declining more rapidly among Hindus.
The Congress leader's retort is a pointed critique of what they perceive as the RSS imposing its ideology on personal matters. This response highlights the tension between individual autonomy and societal expectations, particularly within the context of family planning and demographic trends. It also subtly questions the RSS's moral authority on such issues, suggesting a disconnect between their teachings and their followers' practices.
The BJP, often associated with the RSS, has largely remained silent on the issue, while their NDA allies have offered measured reactions. This silence could be interpreted as an attempt to avoid endorsing a potentially controversial statement that might alienate certain segments of the population. It also reflects the delicate balancing act that political parties often undertake when dealing with sensitive social issues.
Other political figures have also weighed in on Bhagwat's statement. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi criticized Bhagwat, advising him against burdening Indian women with the "three children a family" theory. He argued that women have their own priorities and that such pronouncements are a form of "double speak" by the RSS. He also accused the RSS of spreading anti-Muslim hatred.
The debate also touches upon the instrumentalization of women's bodies and choices. Critics argue that such statements reduce women to mere instruments of reproduction, disregarding their individual aspirations and reproductive rights. They emphasize that decisions about family size should be made by individuals, free from societal pressure or ideological influence.
This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing discussions about population control, resource management, and demographic shifts in India. With delimitation exercises based on population figures expected in 2026, the issue of population has gained political significance. The varying growth rates among different communities add another layer of complexity to the debate, raising concerns about social and political representation.
Ultimately, the clash between the Congress leader and the RSS chief reflects a broader ideological struggle between individual liberties and conservative social norms. It underscores the importance of respecting personal choices while addressing legitimate concerns about population dynamics and societal well-being. The challenge lies in fostering a society where individuals are empowered to make informed decisions about their families, without being subjected to undue pressure or coercion from any quarter.
