Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis issued a strong denial on Monday, March 31, 2025, amid claims that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be ‘retiring’ soon. The remarks came shortly after Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut suggested that Modi had visited the RSS headquarters in Nagpur over the weekend to signal his retirement.
Fadnavis firmly stated, "There is no need to search for his successor. He (Modi) is our leader and will continue. In our culture, when the father is alive, it is inappropriate to talk about succession. That is Mughal culture. The time has not come to discuss it." This assertion comes as a response to ongoing speculation regarding Modi's political future, especially as he approaches the age of 75.
According to party insiders, there is an unwritten rule within the BJP that leaders who reach this age typically step back from ministerial roles. However, Fadnavis insisted that there is no plan for a leadership transition at this time. He confidently proclaimed that Modi will once again become the Prime Minister of India in 2029.
On March 30, 2025, Modi made a significant visit to the RSS headquarters, marking the first time he has done so since taking office. This visit was characterized by Sangh members as a “very important and historic” trip. Modi began his visit by paying tribute to the founder of the RSS, Hedgewar, at the Smruti Mandir, the organization's administrative headquarters. He was accompanied by prominent party members, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Fadnavis, and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.
Raut, who has been a vocal critic of the BJP since the party severed ties with Shiv Sena, claimed that Modi's visit was intended to communicate his retirement plans. He stated, "Modi’s successor will be from Maharashtra, and RSS will decide on that. PM Modi visited the RSS headquarters to discuss his retirement plans." Raut's comments reflect a broader narrative among opposition leaders who have increasingly questioned Modi's future as Prime Minister.
After the meeting at the RSS headquarters, Modi held a roadshow in Nagpur, where large crowds gathered to greet him. The Prime Minister also visited the Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited facility, where he inaugurated the Loitering Munition Test Range. This event highlighted Modi's ongoing engagement with defense initiatives, reinforcing his commitment to national security.
Fadnavis's response to Raut's claims underscores the tensions between the BJP and Shiv Sena. He reiterated that discussing succession while the leader is active is not only inappropriate but also detrimental to the party's unity. He emphasized that Modi's leadership is crucial for the party's future and that any speculation about his retirement is unfounded.
Furthermore, Fadnavis dismissed Raut's assertion that the RSS is seeking a change in leadership. He stated, "He (Modi) probably went to RSS headquarters to write his retirement application in September," referencing the BJP's informal guideline regarding leaders reaching the age of 75. Modi is set to celebrate his 75th birthday in September 2025, making the speculation around his retirement even more pronounced.
In response to the ongoing discourse about Modi's potential retirement, Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal also raised questions, suggesting that the Prime Minister might retire this year. However, Union Home Minister Amit Shah firmly rejected these claims, stating, "I want to say this to Arvind Kejriwal and company and INDI alliance that nothing as such is mentioned in BJP's constitution. PM Modi is only going to complete this tenure and PM Modi will continue to lead the country in future. There is no confusion in BJP.”
The political landscape in India is currently charged with speculation about leadership transitions, particularly as Modi's age becomes a focal point for opposition parties. With the 2024 elections approaching, the BJP faces the challenge of addressing these rumors while maintaining its image of stability and continuity in leadership.
The discussions surrounding Modi's retirement also reflect broader themes in Indian politics, where the question of leadership succession can provoke significant debate. The BJP's strategy in navigating these discussions will likely play a crucial role in shaping its electoral prospects in the coming years.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the BJP will respond to the growing chorus of voices questioning Modi's future. Fadnavis's strong denial and assurances of Modi's continued leadership may help quell some concerns, but the political climate remains dynamic.
In the meantime, Modi's recent engagements, including his visit to the RSS headquarters and the inauguration of the Loitering Munition Test Range, signal his ongoing commitment to national issues and party unity. As the Prime Minister navigates these challenges, his leadership will be pivotal in determining the BJP's trajectory heading into the next election cycle.
