Assam CM Calls for Hindus to Have More Children, Raises Controversy Over Population Growth

In a controversial statement, Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of India's northeastern state of Assam, urged Hindu couples to have at least two or three children, instead of limiting themselves to one. At the same time, he advised the Muslim minority community to refrain from having seven or eight children. Sarma's comments, made during a press interaction on December 30, have ignited a fresh wave of controversy, particularly in India's religious and social-political context.

The Chief Minister claimed that in areas with significant minority populations, birth rates are alarmingly high, while the Hindu population's birth rate is dwindling. He expressed concern that if Hindus do not increase their family sizes, they will face a future without anyone left to manage their homes and property. Sarma also warned that the state's demographics are rapidly changing, with an increasing number of people of Bangladeshi origin, which could lead to shifts in Assam’s demographic balance.

Citing data, Sarma projected that by the 2027 census, the Muslim population of Bangladeshi descent could make up 40% of Assam’s population, up from 21% in the past. He expressed his fear that in the near future, the indigenous Assamese population might shrink below 35%, while the influence of people from Bangladesh would continue to spread across the region.

The Assam CM further claimed that this population shift could pose a national security threat, referencing statements from Bangladesh that suggest northeastern India could eventually be integrated with Bangladesh if the population imbalance reaches 50%. He emphasized that no war would be needed if this demographic shift naturally occurred.

Sarma also criticized the opposition Congress party, accusing them of pushing for 48 reserved seats for Muslims, making the party's ecosystem overly dependent on minority votes.

The remarks have triggered a national debate over the politics of population control and the delicate balance of religious and ethnic relations in India.