Assam CM flags demographic concerns, calls for family size balance

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on December 30, sparked renewed political and social debate after making remarks on population trends and demographic balance, urging Hindu families in areas where they are a minority, or close to becoming one, to have more than one child.

Sarma said the appeal was intended to prevent demographic shifts and to maintain social continuity in such regions.

Writing on social media and later speaking to the media, the chief minister said differences in birth rates between communities were a concern. He stated that in several areas, the Muslim population had a higher birth rate, while the birth rate among Hindus was gradually declining. According to him, this disparity could have long-term social implications if not addressed.

“In areas where the Hindu community is already a minority or is on the verge of becoming one, families should not stop at one child,” the chief minister said. He added that Hindu families should aim to have at least two children and, if possible, even three. “Otherwise, there will be no one to look after the family,” Sarma said, describing the issue as one of social sustainability.

The chief minister also said that his government regularly advised Muslim families against having very large families. “We tell Muslim people not to have eight or seven children,” he said, maintaining that his remarks were aimed at promoting balance and were not directed at any specific community.

Sarma’s comments come at a time when Assam continues to witness discussions on population growth, migration, land rights and cultural identity, issues that have long influenced the state’s political discourse. While supporters say the chief minister is drawing attention to demographic trends, critics are likely to question the communal framing of population-related concerns and its wider social impact.

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