'Will PM Modi Relinquish Post After Turning 75?' Here's How PMO Responded To Query Filed By RTI Activist

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi approaches his 75th birthday on 17 September 2025, questions persist over whether he will continue in office or adhere to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) purported unwritten rule requiring leaders to retire from active politics at that age.

While the BJP and its leaders have repeatedly asserted that PM Modi will remain in office, speculation continues, with some suggesting he may voluntarily step down to set an example for future leaders.

Adding to the discourse, RTI activist Ajay Bose recently sought clarity from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), referencing Modi’s past statements about moving to the BJP’s Margdarshak Mandal (a group of senior mentors) upon turning 75.

In his query, Bose asked, will PM Modi resign as Prime Minister on 17 September 2025 upon turning 75 and join the Margdarshak Mandal? has PM Modi named a successor? If yes, who?

The PMO’s response, however, dismissed the questions, stating that the request "does not fall under the definition of information" as per Section 2(f) of the RTI Act, 2005. It further clarified that the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) is not obligated to answer hypothetical queries or interpret information.

The BJP has long been perceived to follow an informal age-based retirement policy, with several senior leaders—including LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi—being moved to the Margdarshak Mandal upon reaching 75. However, exceptions exist, and the party has consistently maintained that Modi will continue leading the government.

Political analysts remain divided—while some argue that Modi’s unprecedented popularity and leadership justify an exception, others believe a voluntary resignation could reinforce institutional norms within the party.

With no official confirmation from either the PMO or the BJP, the matter remains speculative. All eyes will now be on 17 September 2025, when Modi’s decision—whether to continue or step aside—will finally provide clarity.

For now, the question lingers, Will Modi break tradition or uphold it? Only time will tell.