Cirebon,| Aswinnews.com ~ The proposal by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi regarding conditional vasectomy as part of a birth control program for low-income families has sparked strong reactions from various community leaders, including KH Cholil Nafis.
However, in addressing this controversy, we must be fair and uphold the principle of tabayyun—that is, clarifying and understanding the intent of a policy before making a judgment.
If vasectomy is seen as a mandatory requirement to receive social assistance, this raises serious ethical, social, and religious concerns. But if what is meant is a conditional vasectomy—carried out with the awareness and consent of both husband and wife under certain circumstances, such as already having enough children or for health reasons—then this approach should be viewed as an effort to promote responsible family planning, not coercion.
In Islam, the concept of family planning (tanzim al-nasl) is permissible as long as it is done voluntarily and does not cause harm. Objections to permanent methods like vasectomy usually arise from the belief that it closes the possibility of having children in the future. However, when done voluntarily and for greater maslahah (benefit), scholars themselves hold differing opinions.
Therefore, instead of outright rejection, dialogue between policymakers, religious leaders, and the public is essential. Regional governments also need to communicate the intent and scope of the policy clearly to avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary stigma.
Poor communities have the right to welfare without being restricted by conditions that infringe on their basic rights. At the same time, they also deserve education and clear options to plan their family’s future.
In this case, both the state and religious leaders must work together to find a middle ground between religious values and social needs.
(By Journalist: Abah Roy
Chairman of DPC Aswin, Cirebon City)
