RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has once again reiterated that political leaders should retire at the age of 75. Speaking at a book launch event in Nagpur held in memory of Moropant Pingale, Bhagwat said, “When someone congratulates you for turning 75, it means you should step aside and give others a chance.”
His remarks have reignited political speculation, especially as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to turn 75 in September. Although Bhagwat made similar statements five years ago, he had previously clarified that Modi was an exception to this view. This time, however, his comments have prompted sharp reactions from political circles.
Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) leader Sanjay Raut interpreted the statement as a message directed at PM Modi. The timing of Bhagwat’s remarks has added weight to the debate, given past comments from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who had said in May last year that Modi would not retire from active politics after turning 75. Shah had also clarified that there is no such retirement clause in the BJP constitution.
During the event, Bhagwat also spoke about Moropant Pingale’s foresight during the post-Emergency political transition, recalling how Pingale accurately predicted the opposition’s victory on 276 seats during the 1977 elections. Bhagwat praised Pingale’s humility, noting that he never sought recognition and often changed topics with a smile when asked about his contributions.
The renewed call for age-based retirement in politics comes amid increasing discussions around leadership succession and internal party dynamics as India moves into a new electoral cycle.
