BJP lawmaker urges Hindu youth to marry, have five children

Gajendra Singh Patel, a BJP MP representing the Khargone-Badwani constituency in Madhya Pradesh, called on Hindu youth to prioritise marriage and childbearing as part of broader demographic efforts. Speaking at a public forum, Patel referenced birth rate statistics, noting that what he termed 'Sanatani' communities currently have a birth rate of 1.9, suggesting this rate was insufficient for demographic sustainability.

The legislator expressed concern about what he characterised as negative trends among young people, including rising substance abuse and materialism. He outlined his '3D' campaign, which focuses on combating drug use, DJ culture, and dowry practices—issues he believes distract youth from family formation and social responsibilities.

Patel's remarks reflect ongoing demographic debates within certain BJP circles regarding Hindu population trends compared to other religious communities in India. The comments underscore a recurring theme in some right-wing political discourse concerning family planning and birth rates, though such calls have drawn criticism from demographers who note that India's overall birth rate has naturally declined with rising literacy and economic development across all communities.

The appeal comes amid broader discussions about demographic patterns in India, though population experts argue that birth rates are influenced primarily by education levels, economic opportunity, and access to healthcare rather than political campaigns.