RSS Chief’s 75 Remark Sparks Opposition Buzz.

RSS Chief‘s 75 Remark Sparks Opposition Buzz.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s recent remark, “When you turn 75, make way for others,” has stirred political buzz, especially as both he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are turning 75 this September. The statement, though general in tone, was quickly seized upon by the Opposition to target the Prime Minister, suggesting it was a veiled message directed at him. The timing of the comment has added fuel to ongoing political debates, intensifying speculation about leadership changes within the ruling party.

‘When You Turn 75, Make Way For Others’: RSS Chief’s Remark Sparks Political Buzz Amid PM Modi’s Upcoming Birthday

While speaking at a book launch event on Wednesday evening, Bhagwat made a comment that is now being widely interpreted as a veiled suggestion — possibly aimed.

Bhagwat, who will turn 75 himself on September 11 this year, just days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday on September 17, invoked an old RSS saying.

Though Bhagwat’s tone appeared philosophical and reflective, the political implications of the timing and context were not lost on anyone. Given that both he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are set to reach this milestone in September, the Opposition has quickly seized upon the remark, interpreting it as a subtle nudge toward retirement — and targeting PM Modi in the process.

Opposition Reacts Swiftly

Opposition leaders were quick to latch on to Bhagwat’s words, framing them as a direct — albeit indirect — message to the Prime Minister. Several Congress and INDIA bloc leaders shared the video clip of the RSS chief’s remark on social media with pointed captions, sarcasm, and subtle jibes.

BJP Cautious, RSS Silent

So far, there has been no official clarification or response from either the BJP or the RSS. Party insiders suggest that Bhagwat’s remark was made in a general, cultural context, and not meant to target any individual. However, the political undertone — especially given the personalities involved — has made it hard for observers to dismiss it as mere coincidence.

Over the past year, Bhagwat has spoken on issues like caste discrimination, national unity, and India’s political discourse — often prompting analysis about the evolving relationship between the RSS and the BJP leadership.

A Policy Once Used, Now Questioned?

The BJP has often been accused by the Opposition of using the age-75 benchmark selectively. During its first term in power, senior leaders like L.K. Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi were moved to a newly created “Margdarshak Mandal” (guidance committee) after they crossed 75. Critics argued that the rule was used to retire older leaders and make way for a younger leadership, even though there was no official party constitution enforcing such a rule.

Now, with PM Modi approaching that age, questions are being raised about whether the same yardstick will apply — or whether it was always a political tool wielded conveniently. The Opposition is framing Bhagwat’s remark in this context, asking whether Modi will lead the party into the 2029 general elections, when he would be 78.

What Lies Ahead?

While there is no indication from PM Modi or the BJP that he intends to step aside after turning 75, the RSS chief’s statement adds a new layer to ongoing political chatter. Some analysts believe that Bhagwat may simply have been reminiscing about the RSS tradition of selfless service and timely withdrawal, while others say the statement could hint at a deeper conversation within the Sangh Parivar about leadership transition and generational change.

Whether or not Bhagwat’s remark was directed at anyone in particular, its political impact is clear. As the country gears up for a series of state elections followed by the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, the question of leadership — both within the BJP and the larger political arena — is set to dominate discussions. And Bhagwat’s words, once uttered in passing, may now echo much longer in India’s political corridors.