Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has addressed speculations surrounding the retirement age of individuals holding constitutional posts, particularly the idea of stepping down at 75. During a recent event, Bhagwat clarified that he never explicitly stated that individuals, including himself, should retire at the age of 75.

Bhagwat's remarks came during a three-day lecture series titled "100 years of the Sangh's journey – New Horizons". The RSS chief's statement follows previous comments regarding leaders stepping aside at 75, which sparked considerable debate and drew reactions from opposition parties.

In July 2025, Bhagwat, while speaking at a book release event dedicated to late RSS ideologue Moropant Pingle in Nagpur, mentioned Pingle's view that upon turning 75, one should "stop now and make way for others". These comments led to Congress leaders suggesting that the statement was directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, like Bhagwat, would turn 75 in September.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh took a jibe at PM Modi, alluding to the RSS chief reminding Modi of his upcoming 75th birthday. Ramesh added that the Prime Minister could also remind the RSS chief that he, too, would turn 75.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also commented, pointing out that PM Modi had previously prompted L.K. Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Jaswant Singh to retire after they turned 75.

However, the RSS has since clarified that Bhagwat's earlier statement was simply a reference to the views of the late Sangh leader Moropant Pingle and was not intended to be linked to any specific individual. The organization sought to quell the controversy that arose, while the BJP remained largely silent on the issue.

Bhagwat also touched upon the relationship between the RSS and the BJP, stating that there is "no quarrel" between the two organizations, despite potential differences in opinion. He emphasized that the RSS trusts its members and believes they will eventually "converge" on important issues. Bhagwat also refuted the notion that the RSS dictates decisions for the BJP, clarifying that while the Sangh can offer advice, the final decisions rest with the BJP. When asked about the appointment of a new BJP president and organizational changes, Bhagwat stated that the RSS has no role in such decisions.

Addressing other topics during the lecture series, Bhagwat expressed his support for reservation policies until beneficiaries no longer require them. He advocated for Indian families to have three children in the interest of the country's population balance. He also raised concerns about demographic imbalances caused by conversion and illegal migration, urging that jobs should be prioritized for Indian citizens.