Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has firmly rejected claims that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is preparing to retire, asserting that Modi will continue to lead the country through the next election cycle in 2029. Fadnavis's comments came in response to statements made by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, who suggested that Modi's recent visit to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur was an indication of his impending retirement.
On March 31, 2025, during a press conference, Raut claimed that Modi's visit on March 30 was meant to convey to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat that he was stepping down. Raut stated, "He probably went to RSS headquarters to write his retirement application in September," referencing the unspoken norm within the ruling party that leaders retire at the age of 75, a milestone Modi will reach in September.
Fadnavis responded to Raut's assertions with a strong rebuttal, stating, "There is no need to search for his successor. He (Modi) is our leader and will continue." He emphasized that discussing succession while the leader is still in office is inappropriate, saying, "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 cultural reference aimed to highlight what Fadnavis perceives as a misguided approach to leadership transitions.
Additionally, senior RSS leader Suresh ‘Bhaiyyaji’ Joshi, who was present during Modi's visit, stated he was unaware of any discussions regarding Modi's replacement. Joshi remarked, "I don't have any such information," when asked about Raut's claims. This dismissal from within the RSS, which is often viewed as the ideological backbone of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), adds further weight to Fadnavis's assertions.
Modi's visit to the RSS headquarters was significant, marking his first appearance there since becoming Prime Minister 11 years ago. The visit included paying tribute to RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar at the Smruti Mandir in Reshimbagh, a gesture that resonated with many within the organization. Modi described the visit as a special experience, noting that it coincided with Varsha Pratipada, a notable day in the Hindu calendar. He expressed gratitude for the selfless service of RSS workers during crises, stating, "Their selfless service has been evident in times of floods, earthquakes, and most recently, at the Maha Kumbh."
Raut's claims have not emerged in a vacuum; they come amid ongoing speculation regarding Modi's future leadership, especially as he approaches a significant birthday. The discussion around Modi's retirement has intensified, particularly as other leaders in the ruling party have previously indicated a willingness to step aside at that age. Raut suggested that the RSS is looking for a change in leadership, implying that Modi's time is over. He stated, "From what I understand the entire Sangh parivar wants a change in the country's leadership. PM Modi's time is over and they want change. They also want to choose the next BJP chief."
However, Fadnavis and other BJP leaders have been quick to dismiss such notions. In the past, Amit Shah, a senior BJP leader, clarified that there is no formal policy regarding age limits for candidates, despite previous statements suggesting a preference for younger leaders. Shah stated, "I want to clarify that there is no such provision in BJP's constitution and Modi ji will lead the country till 2029 and Modi ji will also lead the coming elections." This stance reflects a significant shift in the party's narrative, especially in light of the upcoming elections.
The Indian Constitution does not impose an age limit for the Prime Minister; it only requires candidates to be at least 25 years old for the Lok Sabha or 30 for the Rajya Sabha. This lack of a formal retirement age has led to debates within political circles about the appropriateness of such norms.
As the political landscape evolves, the dynamics within the BJP and its relationship with the RSS will continue to shape discussions about leadership and succession. The contrasting views between Raut's claims and Fadnavis's firm support for Modi illustrate the complexities of Indian politics, where speculation and cultural beliefs intertwine with electoral strategies.
With the next Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, the BJP's strategy regarding Modi's leadership will be crucial. The party's ability to navigate these discussions while maintaining unity and public support will be tested in the coming months.
In summary, while Sanjay Raut's assertions have sparked considerable debate, the official stance from Fadnavis and other key BJP figures remains clear: Narendra Modi will continue to lead the party and the nation beyond 2025, with no immediate plans for succession being discussed.
