V-P Dhankhar warns of 'demographic disorder' threat to India

Echoing the sentiments recently expressed by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday expressed deep concerns over the growing threat of demographic disorder in the country. “Demographic disorder is no less severe in consequences than a nuclear bomb,” he said.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the International Conference for CA members at Birla Auditorium, Jaipur, Vice-President Dhankhar said, "Demographic dislocation is turning certain regions into political fortresses, where elections have no real meaning. 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."

He elaborated on the broader implications of this issue for India's future, stating that Bharat must remain a stabilising global force. "This force has to emerge. This century has to belong to Bharat and that will be good for humanity, that will contribute to peace and harmony on the planet. However, it would be a disservice to the nation if we turn a blind eye to the dangers of demographic upheavals that are taking place in this country," the VP warned.

He said organic, natural demographic change is never upsetting but a demographic change brought about in a strategic manner to achieve an object offers a scene that is frightening.

The Vice-President underscored that analysing this demographic shift over the last few decades reveals a disturbing pattern that offers a challenge to our values, to our civilizational ethos, to our democracy. "If this alarmingly worrisome challenge is not addressed systematically, it would escalate into an existential threat for the nation. It has happened in the world. I need not name countries that have lost their identity 100 percent because of this demographic disorder, demographic earthquake," he said.

Vice-President Dhankhar stressed the need for preserving the inclusivity that defines Bharat, saying, "We as a majority are all embracing. We as a majority are tolerant. We as a majority generate a soothing ecosystem. The other kind of majority is brute, ruthless, reckless in its functioning,” trampling on the values of the other side."

He urged to leave behind narrow parochial divisions and adopt a nationalistic outlook that embraces Bharat’s diversity. "A true citizen of Bharat, celebrates this country’s glorious past, regardless of his or her faith, because that is our shared cultural heritage," he added.

He reiterated the need fight divisive forces that are assaulting India's cultural traditions. He also expressed concern about the disregard for the rule of law by some people.

"There was a time when some people thought they were above the law. They were privileged, but things have changed. Even today, we see responsible people in constitutional positions who do not care about the law, do not care about the nation, and say anything. These are sinister design orchestrated by forces inimical to Bharat’s progress. We can’t be crazy for political power. Political power has to emanate from the people, through a democratic process that is sanctified," the Vice-President stressed.