RSS-Linked Magazine Calls for Comprehensive National Population Control Policy Amid Concerns of ‘Demographic Imbalance’

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 9th July. An RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh)-affiliated magazine has raised concerns over what it terms a “demographic imbalance” emerging in certain regions of India, citing significant Muslim population growth. The magazine, Organiser Weekly, called for the introduction of a comprehensive national population control policy in its latest editorial.

The editorial highlighted regional disparities in population control efforts, noting that states in the west and south have been more effective in implementing such measures. However, these states reportedly fear losing parliamentary representation if population bases are altered following the Census.

“Despite stabilising the population at the national level, it is not the same in all religions and regions. There is significant Muslim population growth in certain areas, especially bordering districts,” the editorial stated. It emphasized that in a democracy where numbers are crucial for representation, demographic trends must be closely monitored.

The publication accused politicians like Rahul Gandhi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of exploiting religious sentiments and playing the “minority vote bank” card, attributing this to confidence in a population imbalance. The editorial also warned of lessons to be learned from the Partition and migration issues faced by countries in West Asia and Africa.

Addressing regional imbalances, the editorial pointed out that states excelling in population control measures fear losing parliamentary seats if the population base is adjusted post-Census. “We need policies to ensure that population growth does not disproportionately impact any single religious community or region, which can lead to socio-economic disparities and political conflicts,” it stressed.

The article urged the formulation of a national population policy that takes into account resource availability, future needs, and demographic challenges, to be applied uniformly across all regions. It criticized international organizations and agencies for pushing external agendas, advocating instead for a national approach.

Referencing the 1974 Henry Kissinger Report, the editorial suggested that efforts to control India’s population have long been in play, even before the UN designated July 11 as World Population Day in 1989. It noted that while global population growth is a pressing issue, national contexts vary significantly, with Japan facing negative growth and China reversing its strict population control policies.

The editorial concluded by calling for a national discussion on population issues, emphasizing the need for a policy that views population as either a burden or an asset within the Indian context.