In a controversial move, the head of India’s powerful Hindu nationalist group, the RSS, has declared a new rule for Indian families: “Have three children!”
Mohan Bhagwat, leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), says it’s a matter of national interest. He argues that India’s birth rate is dropping and needs a boost to keep the country growing.
But critics are raising eyebrows. This isn’t just about population—it’s about politics. The RSS has a history of targeting minority groups, particularly Muslims, over their population size.
This statement comes just as the RSS celebrates its 100th anniversary. While the group calls itself a “cultural organization,” it’s widely seen as a Hindu extremist group pushing for “Hindutva,” or Hindu nationalism.
And this isn’t the first time Bhagwat has made this call. He said the same thing last year, sparking a firestorm of protest from political opponents.
With India’s population already at a whopping 1.46 billion, and the average birth rate for women below two children, this is one statement that’s sure to make waves. What will happen next? Only time will tell.