RSS Chief’s Remarks on Retirement Spark Political Storm, Congress Targets PM Modi

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, July 13, 2025, Delhi : In a statement that has stirred significant political controversy, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat recently suggested that leaders should step aside once they reach the age of 75. While addressing a book release event dedicated to late RSS ideologue Moropant Pingle in Nagpur, Bhagwat emphasized that when one turns 75, it signals the time to retire and make space for others. The remarks, made on July 9, immediately sparked a political uproar, with opposition leaders, particularly from the Congress, interpreting it as a veiled message directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will also turn 75 in September this year.

The controversy has intensified as both Bhagwat and PM Modi share a similar age, and their birthdays fall within six days of each other in September. The Congress, which has often been at odds with the BJP, swiftly seized upon the opportunity to make a pointed jab at the Prime Minister. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh took to social media to remark sarcastically, "Poor award-jeevi Prime Minister! What a homecoming - reminded by the RSS chief upon return that he will turn 75 on September 17, 2025." His tweet, which can be roughly translated from Hindi, continued: “The Prime Minister, however, could also remind the RSS chief that he too will turn 75 on September 11. One arrow, two targets,” further highlighting the shared milestone of the two leaders.

Ramesh’s remark also seemed to be a counter to previous taunts from PM Modi, who had coined the term "aandolan jeevi" (those living off movements) and “Foreign Destructive Ideology” to criticize the Opposition and certain groups during the farmers' protests. The Congress leader’s sharp retort, calling Modi an “award-jeevi,” was clearly a play on words to criticize the Prime Minister's alleged quest for awards while dismissing the Opposition's stance.

Adding to the sarcasm, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera responded to Bhagwat’s statement by mocking both Bhagwat and PM Modi. "Now both of you pick up the bag and go guide each other," Khera said in a tweet. He also posted a video on social media where he accused both Bhagwat and Modi of destroying the Constitution and the nation. Khera even quipped that if Modi were not in politics, he would probably have entered Bollywood. "Bollywood toh bach gaya, lekin desh nahin bach paya" (Bollywood got saved, but the country didn’t), he added, further intensifying the political barbs.

Bhagwat's remarks on stepping aside at the age of 75 were delivered during the book launch of "Moropant Pinglay: The Architect of Hindu Resurgence." He recalled an anecdote about Moropant Pingley, a prominent RSS leader, and his views on retirement. Bhagwat reflected on Pingley’s perspective that upon reaching 75, one should retire and allow others to take up responsibilities. The RSS chief praised Pingley for his humility and vision, highlighting his unique ability to simplify complex ideas.

Interestingly, Bhagwat’s comments have brought the issue of leadership transition in the RSS to the forefront. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has tried to downplay the notion of Modi's retirement, with the party dismissing the speculation as unfounded. However, the statement made by Bhagwat on the heels of Modi’s upcoming 75th birthday has reignited discussions around the Prime Minister’s future.

Adding fuel to the fire, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also weighed in on the issue, suggesting that Bhagwat’s statement was a subtle hint toward PM Modi. Raut linked Bhagwat’s comments to the longstanding speculation about Modi’s possible retirement, following an earlier visit by the Prime Minister to the RSS headquarters in Nagpur in March. Raut had then claimed that the visit was a precursor to Modi's announcement of retirement. "As per my knowledge, he has never visited the RSS headquarters in 10 to 11 years. RSS wants change in leadership. PM Modi is now leaving," Raut had remarked at the time, further fueling rumors about Modi stepping down.

The BJP, however, rejected these claims, calling the visit a routine one and asserting that there was no official announcement about the Prime Minister’s retirement.

Meanwhile, the RSS chief’s comment on stepping aside at the age of 75 has prompted fresh scrutiny of the organization's leadership structure and its rules. According to the RSS's internal guidelines, Bhagwat, who will turn 75 in September, is expected to retire from his position as the head of the RSS. Political commentators are now speculating whether Bhagwat's statement is a subtle nudge to Prime Minister Modi to consider a similar step and hand over leadership responsibilities to the younger generation within the party and government.

For Modi, the approaching milestone of 75 has now become a focal point of political discourse. As both he and Bhagwat near this age, the question of leadership transition looms large. The Congress and other Opposition parties are keeping a keen eye on developments, suggesting that Bhagwat’s remarks are more than just a casual comment. With the BJP brushing off the idea of retirement for Modi, the matter remains one of the most talked-about topics in the current political climate, particularly in the lead-up to the next general elections.

As the debate over Modi’s retirement continues to simmer, it remains to be seen whether Bhagwat’s remarks will have any real impact on the Prime Minister’s decision-making process, or if they are merely a symbolic commentary on the changing of the guard in the world of Indian politics.