75 not out: age is just a number in politics

A recent statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has reopened the debate on age and leadership in Indian politics. Speaking in Nagpur, Bhagwat clarified that he had never insisted on a retirement age of 75 for himself or anyone else. His comment was widely interpreted as a veiled message to senior leaders, but he has since made it clear: age alone should not be the deciding factor for stepping aside from public roles.

This position invites a broader conversation: Should age limit the ability to serve in public office, especially in a country like India, where wisdom and experience are often valued above youthful energy?

No fixed age for relevance

• One of the most striking examples is V.S. Achuthanandan, the veteran CPI(M) leader from Kerala. He became Chief Minister of Kerala in 2006 at the age of 82 ,making him the oldest person to hold that office in the state. Far from being a figurehead, Achuthanandan was known for his fiery speeches, sharp intellect, and commitment to public welfare.

• Morarji Desai assumed office as Prime Minister at the age of 81.
• P.V. Narasimha Rao became Prime Minister at 70.
• Dr. Manmohan Singh took charge as Prime Minister at the age of 70,
• Atal Bihari Vajpayee began his full-term tenure as Prime Minister in 1999 at the age of 75.

There are many more examples which show that many leaders continue to contribute meaningfully to public life well past the age of 75. While physical stamina may decline with age, qualities like vision, political acumen, negotiation skills, and moral authority often grow stronger. In a complex democracy like India, such qualities are not just valuable they are often essential.

Balance is need of the hour

This doesn’t mean that parties shouldn’t groom younger leaders or encourage generational shifts. Rather, a healthy political ecosystem should value both: the energy of youth and the wisdom of experience. Retirement should be a personal choice or a performance-based decision.