D K Shivakumar Questions Preference for Sons and Calls for Change in Mindsets

Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has questioned the ongoing societal preference for sons over daughters, calling for an urgent shift in attitudes and greater recognition of the potential and achievements of women.

Speaking on gender perceptions, Shivakumar questioned why so many families continue to hold a strong bias toward male offspring. "Why do many women want a boy? I want to know the answer," he asked while addressing the issue.

Drawing from his own household, the Chief Minister shared a recent personal experience that arose after he became a grandfather. He explained that after his eldest daughter, Aisshwarya, gave birth to a baby girl, his wife expressed a wish that they had welcomed a grandson instead.

Shivakumar recounted that he pushed back against his wife's reaction by pointing to their daughter's accomplishments. He told her that their daughter was doing very well and emphasized that he was deeply proud of her achievements.

Pointing to broader societal trends, Shivakumar noted that the success of women across leadership, business, and numerous other fields demonstrates that daughters can achieve just as much as sons, if not more.

Shivakumar also urged parents to reflect on how they raise the next generation, advising families to prioritize morality, discipline, and core values when bringing up children rather than focusing on their gender.

Underlining the cultural significance of women, Shivakumar remarked, "Life has changed, but even today in Indian culture, women are the eyes of society." He reiterated his call for a change in social attitudes to ensure women's contributions receive appropriate recognition.