A fresh political sparring has emerged after BJP leader Navneet Rana’s remarks on population and demographics. Rana had appealed to Hindus to have four children, claiming it was necessary to ensure that India’s demographic balance does not resemble that of Pakistan. Her statement has now drawn a sharp and sarcastic response from AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.

Speaking at a public rally in Akola, Maharashtra, Owaisi, without naming Rana directly, ridiculed the suggestion. “I have six children, my beard is turning grey. Someone said I should have four children. Why only four? Have eight. Who’s stopping you?” he said, triggering loud reactions from the crowd. His remarks were widely seen as a counterattack on attempts to politicise family size and population growth.

During the same address, Owaisi also responded to comments made by Maharashtra BJP chief Ravindra Chavan, who had said that the memory of former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh would be erased. Owaisi called the statement unnecessary and inappropriate.

He said that Vilasrao Deshmukh is no longer alive to defend himself, and therefore there is no need to speak against him. Owaisi added that Deshmukh’s tenure had both achievements and controversies, including incidents like the Mumbai train blasts and the Malegaon case, but revisiting them now serves no constructive purpose.