Janhit: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Dismisses Retirement Rumors, Says Service to Sangh is Lifelong Commitment

As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) approaches its 100th anniversary, a special three-day event was held in Delhi. On the final day, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the media and responded to a wide range of questions — from his retirement to the RSS’s role in BJP affairs. Clarifying speculation around a retirement age of 75, Bhagwat stated, "I never said I will retire, or that someone should retire. In RSS, we work as long as we are needed. There are no retirement benefits, no personal agendas." He emphasized that even at 80, if the Sangh assigns a duty, it must be fulfilled Addressing the alleged rift between RSS and BJP, Bhagwat denied any conflict, saying, “There may be differences in thought, not in hearts.” When asked if RSS decides BJP's internal matters — including leadership decisions — Bhagwat firmly denied, stating, “If we decided things, would it take this long?” His comments come amidst speculation around BJP president J.P. Nadda's tenure extension. Bhagwat reiterated that RSS only advises, it does not dictate. His candid and sometimes humorous responses drew applause, subtly asserting RSS's ideological role — not a managerial one — in Indian politics.