Assam CM Sparks Controversy with Call for Hindu Families to Have More Children

Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stirred controversy by encouraging Hindu couples to have more children, citing a declining birth rate compared to religious minorities. He expressed concerns over demographic trends, predicting a significant rise in the population of Bangladeshi-origin Muslims in the state. Sarma's remarks have raised eyebrows, especially his contrasting appeals to Hindus and Muslims regarding family size. This article delves into the implications of his statements and the ongoing discussions about population dynamics in Assam.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 31, 2025, 17:05 IST

Controversial Remarks by Assam's Chief Minister

Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, has ignited a new controversy by urging Hindu couples in the state to consider having more than one child. He attributed this appeal to the declining birth rate among Hindus compared to areas with a higher population of religious minorities. Speaking to reporters, Sarma pointed out that birth rates are significantly higher in minority-dominated regions, while the Hindu birth rate continues to decrease. He emphasized the disparity in birth rates between these groups.

The Chief Minister elaborated that this is why he is encouraging Hindu families to expand their families. Sarma stated that he is urging Hindus not to stop at one child and to aim for at least two, suggesting that those who are able could even have three. He also mentioned that while they encourage Hindus to have more children, they advise Muslims against having seven or eight children, warning that otherwise, there may be no one left to care for Hindu households.

Previously, on December 27, Sarma discussed population trends in the state, predicting that the population of Bangladeshi-origin Miya Muslims could reach 40 percent by the 2027 census. He noted that when he began his political career with the All Assam Students' Union (AASU), their population was 21 percent, which rose to 31 percent in the 2011 census. Sarma expressed concern that their population could exceed 40 percent, suggesting that it won't be long before future generations in Assam witness their population drop below 35 percent.

He further commented on claims from Bangladesh that they should integrate Northeast India into their territory, stating that they wouldn't need to wage war for this; once their population surpasses 50 percent, it would happen automatically. Sarma also referenced a recent demand from a Congress spokesperson to reserve 48 assembly seats for Muslims, noting that there was no opposition from the party regarding this request.