The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Census 2004

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Thursday, Sep 16, 2004

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Census 2004

Sir, — Computing census data is a self-appraisal process. It is a tool to determine the direction in which the nation is headed. It should serve as an indicator for the policies to be followed in future. Collection of statistics should be utilised to upgrade the standard of living, to improve literacy and to consolidate the economy and progress. It is unfortunate that the Bharatiya Janata Party and the rest of the Sangh Parivar are seeking to give a religious tinge to the census findings.

Stephen Samuel,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — It would be good for the country if the Venkaiah Naidus and Pravin Togadias used their energy to campaign against the feudal mindset which has resulted in the decline of the sex ratio, instead of harping on the Muslim population growth rate. The census indicate that south India is ahead on all social indicators. This is because communalisation of politics is far less in the south than it is in the north.

T.A. Munawardeen,
Tiruvarur, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — The Sangh Parivar is seeking to create panic by campaigning that soon, Hindus will become a minority if the "unbridled" population growth rate among Muslims continues. This is far from the truth. Even if the same decadal growth continues, it will take 146 years for Muslims to catch up with Hindus. If the adjusted rate is considered, it will be 248 years before both the communities become equal in number. The BJP and its allies will do well not to make a furore over a non-issue.

S.S. Rajagopalan,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — Political parties are making fanatical statements inciting those who are carried away by the rhetoric of gallery speakers. It is quite unnecessary to talk about the growth in numbers when economic and social growth is lopsided. As Swami Vivekananda said, India does not have enough food to save lives but has enough religion to kill.

N. Ravindranath,
Hyderabad

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Sir, — The reason for the high growth rate of the Muslim population is not religion. It is the economic and educational backwardness of the community that is responsible for the increase in the population of its members. So the need of the hour is to educate Muslims, especially women, on the importance of family planning. The BJP should not make this an issue against Muslims.

C. Thirunavukkarasu,
Chennai

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