Nagpur: A seemingly innocuous comment by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has stirred up a political storm, with the Opposition interpreting it as a subtle nudge towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hang up his boots as he nears 75.
Speaking at a book launch event in Nagpur dedicated to late RSS ideologue Moropant Pingle, Bhagwat remarked, “When you turn 75, it means you should stop now and make way for others.” He referenced Pingle’s philosophy, noting that being felicitated with a shawl post-75 was symbolic of one’s time being up in public life.
The comment, made just two months ahead of PM Modi’s 75th birthday on September 17, 2025, has been widely viewed as a veiled message, especially since Bhagwat himself turns 75 just six days earlier, on September 11.
Though BJP insiders insist there’s no formal rule enforcing retirement at 75, the party has often adhered to an unwritten convention of phasing out leaders once they cross that age. However, BJP has dismissed all interpretations suggesting Bhagwat’s remarks were aimed at Modi.
Opposition Reacts Sharply
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh quipped on X (formerly Twitter), “Poor award-winning Prime Minister! What a homecoming – reminded by the RSS chief upon return that he turns 75 soon. But the PM might remind him – Bhagwat too turns 75 just days earlier. One arrow, two targets!”
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera also took a swipe: “Good news! Both Modi and Bhagwat are turning 75 – looks like India’s ‘Achhe Din’ are finally on the way.”
Retirement Talks and Nagpur Visit
The row follows PM Modi’s recent, rare visit to the RSS headquarters in Nagpur – his first in 10 years – which Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut claimed was to discuss possible retirement plans with the RSS top brass.
Dismissing all speculation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that Modi would serve his full term till 2029, putting to rest any talk of premature exit.
As the countdown to Modi and Bhagwat’s shared milestone begins, the remark has reignited debates about leadership transition, succession, and age limits in Indian politics — even within the Sangh Parivar itself.
