As Prime Minister Narendra Modi approaches his 75th birthday this September, political speculation is heating up over whether the BJP will enforce its unofficial retirement rule. Traditionally, the BJP leadership has maintained that leaders above the age of 75 should step aside from active politics. Now, with Modi reaching that age milestone on September 17, questions are being raised about whether he too will follow the same path.
The debate gained momentum following recent comments by RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, who invoked a historical figure’s philosophy about stepping aside at a certain age. Although he didn’t mention Modi by name, his remarks have sparked political interpretation. Congress seized the moment, suggesting that Bhagwat’s message was a subtle nudge at Modi, who has often been associated closely with the RSS.
Adding to the irony, Bhagwat himself will turn 75 just days before Modi. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh took a dig, saying the “retirement message” should be mutual, calling it a “two birds with one stone” moment.
This isn’t the first time BJP’s age guideline has drawn attention. Senior leaders like LK Advani and Venkaiah Naidu were sidelined once they crossed the age limit. However, in some exceptions, like Karnataka’s Yediyurappa, the rule was bent for political needs.
The big question now: Will Modi, the face of BJP for over a decade, also make way — or will the rule be reinterpreted for him?
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