“Modi nahi to kaun?” (“If not Modi, then who?”)
This question has echoed across India, whether at a tea stall, on a bumpy road in a tempo, or in a high-flying airplane. Over the years, Narendra Modi’s supporters have often asked who could replace him, both within the opposition and within the BJP itself.
Modi, who is serving his third term as Prime Minister, will turn 75 next year.
To understand the significance of this age in politics, let’s look at some dates and statements.
The Question of Modi’s Successor
After the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, some within the BJP have started discussing who might be Modi’s successor. The question has become more relevant as Modi nears 75 years of age, an age at which many senior leaders in the BJP have previously stepped down or been sidelined.
The Importance of the RSS
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which plays a significant role in the BJP, becomes more influential when the party is perceived as weak. This raises the question: who might the RSS consider as Modi’s successor? Some speculate that there is a political rivalry between Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, and Amit Shah, the Home Minister of India.
The 75-Year Rule
In 2014, when Modi became Prime Minister, senior leaders like L.K. Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, who were over 75, were moved to an advisory body called the “Margdarshak Mandal.” This set a precedent that leaders over 75 might not hold key positions in the party.
However, there have been exceptions, like B.S. Yediyurappa, who continued to lead the party in Karnataka even after turning 80.
In the past, Amit Shah stated that the BJP does not have a strict rule preventing leaders over 75 from contesting elections. But, in practice, the party has often chosen not to give election tickets to those over 75.
Will Modi Follow the 75-Year Rule?
Political strategist Prashant Kishor once said that the 75-year rule was created by Modi himself, so it is up to him to decide whether to follow it. Some analysts believe Modi will remain in control until at least 2029.
The RSS and BJP’s Future Plans
The RSS, known for its long-term planning, might already be considering who could lead the BJP after Modi. The relationship between Modi and the RSS has evolved over the past 10 years. Although the RSS supported Modi’s rise to Prime Minister in 2014, there are signs that the organization may be preparing for a future beyond Modi.
Conclusion
While Narendra Modi remains active and in control, the BJP and RSS might already be thinking about the party’s future leadership. Whether it will be Amit Shah, Yogi Adityanath, or someone else, the search for Modi’s successor could be quietly underway.
