Nitish Kumar's population control initiative: A noble cause tainted by inappropriate language
The recent comments from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar regarding population control, made during discussions on the caste survey report in the state Assembly, serve as a disheartening reminder that the Indian political arena still lacks an evolved vocabulary for discussions on gender rights. While the CM made a crucial point linking women's education to empowerment through reproductive autonomy for effective population control, his message was undermined by the use of crass and graphic language.
This not only hinted at an unscientific approach to family planning but also seemed to unfairly place the burden of responsibility on women. It's worth noting that Kumar, known for policies like the 2006 Mukhyamantri Balika Cycle Yojana and the controversial 2016 prohibition law, has been a pioneer in recognizing the importance of empowering women in Indian politics.
Despite positive strides in the national conversation about women's representation, as seen in the support for the Women's Reservation Bill, the persistence of sexist language in politics remains disheartening. Furthermore, the tendency to dismiss objections, as demonstrated by Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav in attributing the controversy to public "hesitancy" about sex education, reflects an insensitivity to gender issues.
This dismissiveness contributes to the existing hostility that women in politics face, hindering efforts to create a level playing field. Misogyny knows no party lines, evident in the experiences of leaders like J Jayalalitha, Renuka Chowdhury, Mamata Banerjee, Mayawati, and Smriti Irani, who have faced demeaning language both inside and outside the political arena.
While Kumar has issued an apology and retracted his remarks in response to the uproar, there is more to be done. Perhaps, he could initiate change by obtaining a copy of the 30-page handbook on combating gender stereotypes issued by the Supreme Court. This handbook provides a comprehensive collection of examples illustrating how sexist and crude references to women permeate daily discourse and emphasizes the need for change.
Recognizing that words matter, the handbook, issued by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, emphasizes that stereotypical language may contradict constitutional values, as words convey the intentions of lawmakers and judges to the nation. Nitish Kumar should reflect on his lapse in judgment and consider reframing his speech, demonstrating both boldness and a commitment to positive change.
