As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to celebrate his 75th birthday on September 17th, Congress leader Udit Raj has ignited controversy with a bold prediction: Modi will resign on his birthday. Raj’s statement is rooted in the historical context of age limits which he claims were imposed by PM Modi himself on other leaders. The opposition has consistently raised the issue of Modi’s retirement, particularly in light of past comments by Amit Shah regarding the party’s stance on candidates above 75 years of age. The Congress is now pointing to the PM’s potential retirement at 75, fueled by remarks from RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, who had previously suggested a retirement age. Bhagwat later clarified his stance, stating he never specifically mandated retirement at 75. Narendra Modi, born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat, served as Chief Minister for three terms and has been Prime Minister since 2014. In July, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge questioned Modi’s retirement plans, referencing the RSS’s suggestions. Kharge inquired about the PM’s retirement, insinuating his self-interest, and highlighted the removal of BJP veterans. Mohan Bhagwat, speaking in Nagpur on July 9, had suggested that turning 75 meant it was time to step aside. However, during a later event, Bhagwat clarified his earlier statement, emphasizing he did not institute a mandatory retirement age. Bhagwat stated that as an RSS worker, he would perform duties assigned to him, regardless of his age. In May 2023, Amit Shah asserted that the BJP’s constitution does not have a retirement provision, and Modi would continue to lead until 2029. Rajnath Singh confirmed that a retirement decision had never been made.
