Between Us

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsangchalak Mohan Bhagwat's remarks regarding the retirement age for those in public life has triggered speculation regarding his plans for his own future.

- Pankaj Vohra

Mr Bhagwat turns 75 years this September and what is to be seen is whether the RSS chief's stipulation of age limit was just a casual remark, or aimed at sending a clear message down the line to all those associated with the Sangh Parivar.

Bhagwat, while speaking at a book launch function dedicated to RSS ideologue, the late Moropant Pingle at Nagpur, said, "when you turn 75, it means you should stop now and make way for others". He also recalled that Pingle had a very humorous nature and had once stated, "if you are honoured with a shawl after turning 75, it means that you should stop now, you are too old, step aside and let others come in". Pingle, whose devotion to national service was exemplary, believed in withdrawing gracefully once age signalled it was time, he said.

The RSS chief's remarks come in the backdrop of reports regarding serious differences within the saffron brigade over the appointment of the next BJP president. Mr J.P. Nadda's extended tenure has to end and the RSS as well as the BJP have been over the past few months discussing various names, some of whom are considered inconvenient for some in the top leadership.