RSS Chief’s ‘75-Age Exit’ Remark Triggers Political Buzz, Congress Takes Swipe at PM Modi

New Delhi: A seemingly philosophical remark by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat about leaders stepping aside at the age of 75 has stirred the political cauldron, with the Congress quickly seizing on the opportunity to take a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking at a book launch event in Nagpur, Bhagwat referred to late RSS ideologue Moropant Pingley’s belief that turning 75 is a milestone that signifies it’s time for a person to “step aside” and make way for others. “When the shawl of 75 years is draped over you, it means you’ve reached an age where you must let others take up the work,” said Bhagwat, without naming anyone.

However, the timing of the remark—and its potential implications—was impossible to miss. Both Bhagwat and PM Modi are set to turn 75 in September, just six days apart. Modi’s birthday is on September 17, while Bhagwat’s falls on September 11.

The Congress wasted no time in linking the comment to the Prime Minister. Party general secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media shortly after Modi returned from his extensive five-nation diplomatic tour, his longest overseas visit to date.

“Poor award-winning Prime Minister! What a homecoming—reminded by the RSS chief upon return that he will turn 75 on September 17, 2025,” Ramesh wrote on X (formerly Twitter). In a sharp follow-up, he added, “But the Prime Minister may well remind the RSS chief that he, too, turns 75 on September 11. One arrow, two targets.”