• Source:JND
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A day after Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat raised alarm over India’s declining fertility rate, reactions poured in from both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition leaders. While BJP leaders lauded Mohan Bhagwa’s comments as being in the national interest, opposition figures criticised the practicality of increasing the population without adequate resources.

At an event in Nagpur on Sunday, Mohan Bhagwat urged citizens to maintain a total fertility rate (TFR) above 2.1 to "prevent societal extinction". He warned that if the population fell below this threshold, it would not sustain itself. "Population science dictates that society needs more than two children per family to sustain itself," he said, suggesting that families should aim for at least three children. He described the declining birth rate as a "serious concern."

BJP Leaders Rally Behind Bhagwat

BJP leaders promptly supported Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks. Party MP Manoj Tiwari called the statement “in the national interest,” urging a positive analysis. "The RSS is a patriotic organisation and if Bhagwat ji has said something, it should be seen positively," Tiwari stated. Echoing this sentiment, BJP MP Arun Govil highlighted Bhagwat’s maturity, stating that his remarks are "for the good of the country."

Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC also defended Bhagwat, asserting that opposition criticism was politically motivated. “When Bhagwat speaks, he cites demographic science. Opposition parties are merely opposing for political gain,” she remarked.

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Opposition Raises Concerns Over Resources

Opposition leaders, however, were quick to challenge Mohan Bhagwat’s stance. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut questioned the rationale behind increasing population, highlighting India’s already high population of 1.5 billion. "How much more does the RSS chief want it to grow? First, advise your BJP members,” he said, accusing Bhagwat of ignoring issues like women’s safety.

Congress MP Tariq Anwar criticised the contradictory positions within the BJP on population control, urging the government to clarify its stance. "BJP leaders advocate for population control, while Bhagwat promotes growth. The contradictions must be addressed," Anwar stated.

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All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi took a dig at Bhagwat, questioning if he would provide financial incentives for larger families. “Will the RSS chief offer Rs 1,500 to those with more children?” he mocked. Azad Samaj Party MP Chandra Shekhar highlighted the strain on resources, saying, “Such statements are politically driven and the population’s needs for food, water and jobs must be considered.”

Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury questioned Mohan Bhagwat’s experience in bringing up a child, noting the challenges of rising food prices and unemployment. “What do people need more children for when basic needs aren’t being met?” she asked.