Paromita Das
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 17th October. Bharat’s Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, has raised alarm bells over what he describes as an ever-increasing “demographic disorder” in the country. During a recent speech in Jaipur, Dhankhar expressed deep concerns about the strategic demographic shifts in certain parts of Bharat, which, according to him, threaten the nation’s democratic values, civilizational ethos, and cultural heritage. He went as far as to compare the consequences of these demographic changes to a “nuclear bomb” in their potential impact on Bharat’s future.
Dhankhar’s remarks come at a time when Bharat’s changing religious demography has become a subject of national debate. His candid speech highlights not only the rising fears among many Bharatiya about the demographic shift but also the broader socio-political implications it could have on Bharat’s democracy and national unity.
The Vice President’s Concerns: A “Disturbing Pattern”
In his speech, Dhankhar pointed to specific regions in Bharat where the demographic changes are so significant that they have turned these areas into political fortresses of particular groups. He lamented that in these regions, the essence of democracy is being eroded, with elections becoming mere formalities devoid of true political contestation.
“It is alarming to see how some areas have been affected by this strategic shift, turning them into impenetrable strongholds where democracy loses its essence,” Dhankhar was quoted as saying. He emphasized that his concerns are not about natural demographic changes, which occur organically over time, but rather about shifts engineered with specific political objectives. These engineered changes, he warned, could lead to an “existential threat” for the nation if left unchecked.
Demographic Shifts as a Strategic Tool
Dhankhar’s speech highlights the Vice President’s belief that certain groups are deliberately influencing demographic changes to alter the political landscape of certain regions. He claimed that these shifts are a result of calculated actions aimed at consolidating power, warning that the implications of such moves are far-reaching. According to Dhankhar, Bharat’s cultural heritage and democratic foundations are under siege by forces that are using demographics as a tool for political gain.
The Vice President also accused politicians who prioritize personal political power over the national interest as “champions of anarchy,” suggesting that such individuals undermine the country’s democracy by exploiting demographic changes for electoral gains.
Changing Religious Demographics in Bharat: An Overview
Dhankhar’s concerns reflect broader fears regarding Bharat’s shifting religious demographics. A recent study by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) has added fuel to these concerns. The study, titled Share of Religious Minorities – A Cross-Country Analysis (1950-2015), highlighted significant changes in Bharat’s religious composition between 1950 and 2015.
According to the study, the Hindu population in Bharat declined from 84% to 78% during this period, while the Muslim population grew from 9.84% to 14.09%. Other religious groups such as Christians and Sikhs also saw increases, while smaller communities like Jains and Parsis witnessed declines in their population shares.
The research pointed out various factors contributing to these demographic changes, including disparities in total fertility rates (TFR) among different religious communities, forced religious conversions, and the influx of illegal immigrants from neighboring countries like Bangladesh, including the Rohingya Muslims. These demographic shifts have been particularly pronounced in border states, North East Bharat, and certain hill regions, where tensions between native populations and religious minorities have often escalated.
The Consequences of Ignoring the Demographic Shift
Dhankhar’s comparison of the demographic shift to a “nuclear bomb” underscores the gravity of his concerns. According to the Vice President, the demographic imbalance poses a threat not only to Bharat’s political system but also to its cultural identity. He warned that if these changes are not addressed systematically and effectively, Bharat risks losing its identity altogether.
“We cannot be crazy for political power. Political power has to emanate from the people through a democratic process that is sanctified,” Dhankhar stressed, indicating that any attempt to manipulate demographic trends for political gain undermines the very essence of democracy.
An Attack on Bharat’s Cultural Heritage?
The Vice President’s speech also took a cultural turn, as he expressed concerns that Bharat’s rich cultural heritage is being “attacked” by forces aiming to reshape the nation’s demographic profile. He called for a robust ideological and mental counterattack to protect Bharat’s civilizational values and national interests.
Dhankhar emphasized that the Bharatiya majority is characterized by its tolerance and inclusivity, but he cautioned against taking this for granted. “We, as a majority, are all-embracing and tolerant, generating a soothing ecosystem. The other kind of majority, however, is brute, ruthless, and reckless in its functioning, trampling on all the values of the other side,” Dhankhar noted.
He called on all citizens to work together with a missionary zeal to build a cohesive society free from divisions of caste, creed, color, and culture.
Conclusion: A Call for National Reflection
Vice President Dhankhar’s stark warning about the “demographic disorder” in Bharat is a reflection of growing concerns over the country’s changing religious and cultural landscape. His comparison of the demographic shift to a nuclear bomb suggests that the implications of these changes are far more profound than mere political maneuvering. The speech raises important questions about the future of Bharat’s democracy, cultural identity, and national unity.
While some may view Dhankhar’s concerns as exaggerated, they undeniably touch on a sensitive issue that has long simmered beneath the surface in Bharatiya politics. Addressing these demographic shifts requires not only policy measures but also a deeper national conversation about how to balance diversity with unity in a democratic society.
The Vice President’s concerns are valid but need to be approached with caution. Demographic changes are a natural part of any evolving society, and diversity is one of Bharat’s greatest strengths. However, when these changes are perceived as deliberate and politically motivated, they can indeed lead to social and political tensions. The solution lies not in stoking fears of demographic change but in fostering dialogue, ensuring equal opportunities for all, and promoting national unity over divisive politics.
Bharat’s strength lies in its ability to embrace diversity while maintaining a sense of national identity. It is essential for political leaders, policymakers, and citizens alike to work together to ensure that demographic shifts do not become a tool for division but rather a source of strength for the nation.
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