Leaders should step aside at 75: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

On July 9, 2025, at the Vanamati auditorium in Nagpur, during a book launch event for the English biography Moropant Pingle: The Architect of Hindu Resurgence by author Mandar Moroney and Pranjali Kane, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that leaders should step aside at age 75, quoting RSS ideologue Moropant Pingle. His remark prompt political reactions due to its timing near his and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthdays. The book, published by Vivek Prakashan, details Pingle’s contributions to the RSS and his role in shaping its organizational structure.

The RSS clarified that Bhagwat referred to Pingle’s views and targeted no individual. Opposition parties, including Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), suggested the comment aimed at Modi. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh noted the timing, with Bhagwat turning 75 on September 11, 2025, and Modi on September 17, 2025. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called it a "clear message". BJP leaders rejected the claims, asserting the remark did not address Modi.

The statement revived discussions about a former BJP practice of leaders retiring at 75. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated in May 2023 that the BJP’s constitution includes no such age limit. (Rh/Eth/RS)