This verse deals with the sensitive topic of ‘varṇa-saṅkara’, or unwanted population. Arjuna argues that when irreligion predominates, the women of the family become polluted. In the Vedic social structure, the protection of women was considered paramount for maintaining the purity of the lineage. Arjuna fears that without the protection and guidance of the elders, the women of the family will stray from traditions, leading to the birth of children who are not raised according to sacred rituals. Such a population, lacking spiritual culture, would lead to a chaotic society. He sees war not just as a military event, but as the catalyst for total societal degradation. His concern is for the long-term purity and stability of the human race, which he believes is at risk if the current generation of leaders is wiped out.