Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has expressed a strong view that live-in relationships and same-sex marriages are “against the norms of society” and could lead to the collapse of the social fabric. Speaking during a YouTube podcast, the Union Road Transport and Highways Minister termed the live-in relationship wrong.
Recalling a visit to the British Parliament, Gadkari shared that he had asked UK leaders about the biggest challenges in their country. “They told me that the biggest problem in European nations is men and women not getting married and opting for live-in relationships,” he said.
Explaining his concern, Gadkari questioned how the absence of traditional marriage could affect future generations. “If we don’t get married, how will children be born? What will be their future? If the social structure breaks down, what will be the impact on the people?” he asked.
On whether India needs more or fewer children, Gadkari remarked, “It is not an issue. Parents should have children and raise them responsibly. Having children ‘for fun’ without accountability is not acceptable.”
The minister also criticized same-sex marriage, claiming it would “lead to the collapse of the social fabric”. Addressing concerns about gender imbalances, he speculated that drastic changes might require unorthodox solutions, such as allowing polygamy, if the ratio of women to men drops significantly.
Asked whether “divorce should be banned in an ideal India”, Gadkari rejected the idea but maintained that live-in relationships were detrimental to social stability.
Concluding, he said, “Society will ultimately determine its own standards,” reiterating that his comments reflect his personal beliefs about what is right and wrong.