RSS Chief's Words Stir Debate on Leadership Transition in BJP
A recent statement by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has sparked significant political debate, with several leaders interpreting it as a veiled suggestion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to consider retirement.
Speaking at a public event, Bhagwat remarked, “When the 75-year-old shawl comes over, it should be understood that it’s time to take a rest. One should step aside in time, without clinging to glory.” The cryptic comment has led to speculation across political circles, with many interpreting it as a subtle message aimed at PM Modi, who will turn 75 in September this year.
Reacting sharply, Sanjay Raut, Member of Parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction, directly linked the statement to the Prime Minister. “Modi will be 75 this September. He has tasted the full sweetness of power. His beard has turned white, his hair has thinned, and he has traveled the world. Now, according to the Sangh’s rules, he should step down,” Raut said.
He further alleged that the RSS has been consistently sending retirement signals to Modi, and accused the Prime Minister of sidelining senior leaders such as L.K. Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, who were moved out under the pretext of the same retirement rule after Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s era.
Raut also referred to a previous article he had written, in which he claimed a meeting between Modi and Bhagwat had taken place, where the age-limit policy was discussed explicitly. According to him, the current developments validate that assertion.
Amidst the rising discourse on retirement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently spoke about his interest in shifting focus toward natural farming and spirituality post-retirement. Commenting on this, Raut said, “Every individual has different perspectives about retirement. But the emergence of such thoughts is a positive sign for the country.”
Meanwhile, Rohit Pawar, a young leader from the Sharad Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), also responded to Bhagwat’s remarks. “There is an inseparable relationship between the BJP and the RSS. Whatever the Sangh says, the BJP is bound to follow. Modi turning 75 will be a crucial moment. It remains to be seen whether he will act in line with the Sangh’s expectations,” he stated.
As political observers continue to decode Bhagwat’s comment, the months leading to September are expected to witness intensified discussions on leadership transition and internal dynamics within the ruling establishment.