<पी शैली="पाठ-संरेखण: औचित्य सिद्ध करें;">Participating in the debate on the caste survey report after it was presented in the Bihar Assembly on Tuesday, Nitish Kumar had said, “The fertility rate in the state has come down from 4.3% to 2.9% due to women’s education, because an educated Women are able to ensure that sex is not just about having children, this thinking helps in keeping the population under control.
In the realm of political discourse, examples of derogatory comments, particularly those targeting women, can be both disappointing and shocking. Nitish Kumar’s recent statement on the relationship between women’s education and fertility rate is a poignant example. While it is important to look at such comments critically, it is equally important to examine the underlying factors that contribute to generating such rhetoric.
Politicians, as public figures, have a significant influence in maintaining the social order and its fabric. His statements, whether knowingly or unknowingly, have the power to shape public opinion. In the case of Nitish Kumar’s comments, the focus on fertility rates and the implication that educated women prevent unplanned pregnancies raises concerns about the mindset and attitudes prevalent among some politicians.
One possible explanation for such observations lies in the historical patriarchal structures inherent in societies. Traditional gender roles often portray women as primary caregivers, view their responsibility as lying within the confines of the home, and emphasize their roles within the confines of the home. When politicians make statements that diminish women’s reproductive capabilities, it reflects deep-seated gender bias that persists despite progress in various fields.
Furthermore, political discussion may sometimes be motivated by a desire to attract certain voter demographics. In an effort to connect with conservative or regressive elements within society, politicians may resort to reinforcing stereotypical ideas about gender roles. This strategy, although detrimental to the overall progress of gender equality, can be seen as a means of garnering electoral support.
Even today, parties with conservative ideology have a good hold in western countries, like the Republican Party in America, there are many parties in Europe which are against abortion and gay marriage.
This comment of Nitish Kumar was made in the context of the debate on the caste survey report. The intersection of caste dynamics with gender issues can create a complex web of biases. Politicians, knowingly or unknowingly, try to exploit such statements to further their political agenda, even if it means resorting to derogatory comments.
Media sensationalism and the 24/7 news cycle also play a role in perpetuating such statements. Controversial comments grab headlines and generate discussion, giving politicians the attention they want. This creates a feedback loop where politicians feel encouraged to make provocative comments to maintain their presence in the public eye.
To solve this problem, both systemic and social changes are required. Politicians should be held accountable for their statements through strong mechanisms, and political parties should actively promote gender-sensitive training for their members. Additionally, to foster a culture that rejects sexist rhetoric, collective efforts of civil society, media and educational institutions are needed.
Empowering women in politics is another important step towards eliminating gender stereotypes. When women are active participants in political decision-making processes, the likelihood of derogatory comments is reduced. This requires a commitment to gender equality in political representation and the elimination of barriers that hinder women’s entry and progress in politics.
Nitish Kumar’s comment is indeed insulting, it is a reminder of the challenges that remain in achieving true gender equality. By understanding the root causes behind such statements and actively working towards eliminating regressive ideologies, society can move towards a more inclusive and respectful political discourse that uplifts rather than diminishes the role of women.
[नोट- उपरोक्त दिए गए विचार लेखक के व्यक्तिगत विचार हैं. यह ज़रूरी नहीं है कि एबीपी न्यूज़ ग्रुप इससे सहमत हो. इस लेख से जुड़े सभी दावे या आपत्ति के लिए सिर्फ़ लेखक ही ज़िम्मेदार हैं.]