Controversial remarks during Ram Katha reignite debate on religious sensitivities, with leaders condemning anti-Islam slurs and insisting on protecting Muslim dignity
MEERUT – The ongoing Ram Katha at Victoria Park in Meerut in Uttar Pradesh has become the centre of a heated controversy following statements by Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya regarding women and family life in Islam.
Speaking to the gathering, the spiritual leader claimed, “In the Hindu religion, mother is given a higher status than father, whereas in Muslim religion, women suffer and are treated merely as wives or for childbirth.”
Swami Rambhadracharya specifically criticised Muslim marital practices, stating, “To have 25-25 children from one woman and then divorce them by giving three divorces when they grow old… this is a ‘use and throw’ approach. This does not happen in Hindu tradition.” He added, “Hinduism honours mothers above fathers, ensuring respect and care for women throughout their lives.”
His remarks also touched on education and family planning. He urged parents not to send children to convent schools or madrasas, but instead to Saraswati Vidyalayas, to imbibe cultural ideals. “A person goes to hell by having too many children. There should be two to three children, whether daughters or sons, and they should be made cultured and disciplined,” he said.
The statements have prompted widespread criticism from Muslim communities and social activists across Uttar Pradesh. Dr Aslam Qureshi, a Meerut-based social worker, said, “Rambhadracharya’s comments are deeply offensive and inaccurate. Islam values women, respects their rights, and the claim that women ‘suffer’ or are discarded is completely false. Such remarks hurt communal harmony and spread misunderstanding.”
The controversy comes shortly after the Swami had described Western Uttar Pradesh as a “mini-Pakistan,” urging Hindus to be vocal about perceived injustices to their religion. Former Samajwadi Party MP Dr ST Hasan had strongly condemned that earlier statement, calling it “an insult to Muslims and the people of Western Uttar Pradesh.”
Local Muslim leaders emphasised the importance of respecting religious diversity. Maulana Aftab Ahmed of Meerut said, “Statements like these create unnecessary tension. Our mothers and women enjoy respect and rights in Islam. It is disappointing that such a gathering is being used to propagate false narratives.”
The Ram Katha, which began on 8 September, was meant to focus on devotional teachings. However, many attendees have expressed discomfort over the communal tone of recent speeches. “We came for spiritual guidance, not for divisive statements,” said one resident requesting anonymity.
The comments have reignited debates about the role of religious leaders in public discourse and the responsibilities they carry towards fostering harmony. Activists warn that misinformation about faith practices could inflame communal tensions in the region.
Despite the backlash, Rambhadracharya continues to emphasise Hindu traditions and family values. He stated, “Sanatan Dharma teaches Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the entire world is one family. We must protect our faith, but not at the cost of truth or communal peace.”
Legal experts suggest that while freedom of speech is protected, public statements targeting a particular community may invite scrutiny under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to promoting enmity between groups.
The Muslim community in Meerut and beyond has urged calm while condemning the remarks, stressing education, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence. “We respect all religions but cannot accept baseless claims that malign our women and families,” said Ayesha Siddiqui, a Meerut-based educationist.
As the controversy continues, social media and local press are reporting strong reactions from across India, highlighting the delicate balance between freedom of speech, religious sensitivity, and communal harmony.
