Mohan Bhagwat's 75-Year Remark Sparks Political Speculation
Political Reactions to Bhagwat's Statement
New Delhi, July 11: A seemingly innocuous comment made by Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has stirred significant political discourse. His assertion that leaders should consider stepping down at the age of 75 has elicited strong reactions from both Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), who interpret it as a subtle jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a potential indication of discord between the RSS and the BJP.
During a book launch in Nagpur honoring the late RSS thinker Moropant Pingle, Bhagwat stated, “Upon reaching 75, it is time to step aside and allow others to take the lead.”
This comment, while broadly applicable, gained immediate attention due to its timing, as both Bhagwat and Modi will celebrate their 75th birthdays in September, just six days apart.
Congress quickly capitalized on this moment. Senior leader Pawan Khera remarked that Bhagwat’s words signified “good news,” suggesting it could herald the end of Modi's tenure.
“Yesterday, Mohan Bhagwat delivered good news. He’s not typically known for such statements, but he did yesterday,” Khera noted.
“He mentioned that after 75, one should give others a chance. Why is this good news? Because Bhagwat turns 75 on September 11, followed by PM Modi on September 17.”
Khera also mused about what Modi might have pursued if he hadn’t entered politics. “I often ponder — if PM Narendra Modi hadn’t been in politics, where would he be? I believe he would have found a place in Bollywood. Thankfully, Bollywood was spared, but unfortunately, the nation was not,” he criticized Modi’s leadership over the last 11 years.
He continued, “The current state of the Constitution and democratic institutions is a result of their actions. Their exit would be a relief for India’s spirit. A wave of joy swept the nation upon hearing Bhagwat's statement. People should celebrate, as better days may be on the horizon.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi shared similar views, referencing the BJP’s own retirement age policy.
“When the BJP assumed power in 2014, they established a guideline that anyone over 75 should transition to a mentoring role. Leaders like Lal Krishna Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi were moved to the 'Margdarshak Mandal'. This principle should now extend to everyone, including PM Modi and Bhagwat,” she stated.
Chaturvedi added, “A clear contradiction is emerging between the BJP and RSS. Bhagwat seems to be reminding everyone that the same rules apply to all, including himself. This message appears to be subtly directed at PM Modi.”
Following Bhagwat's comments, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media with a sarcastic post. Referring to Modi’s recent five-nation tour, Ramesh quipped, “Poor award-jeevi Prime Minister! What a welcome home — reminded by the RSS chief that he will turn 75 on September 17.”
Ramesh added, “However, the Prime Minister can also remind Bhagwat that he, too, will be 75 on September 11. One arrow, two targets.”
As of now, neither PM Modi nor any official spokesperson from the BJP has commented on Bhagwat’s remarks or the ensuing political interpretations.
It is worth noting that in May 2023, Union Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that there is no retirement provision in the BJP’s constitution.
“Modi ji will continue to lead until 2029. There’s no truth to retirement rumors. The INDIA Bloc will not win the upcoming elections with falsehoods,” he stated.