During a Global Forum held in Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a significant statement regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's successor. He unequivocally stated that Narendra Modi will remain Prime Minister in 2029.
New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has put an end to all speculations surrounding the Prime Ministership in 2029 with a b statement. He asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will continue to lead the nation in 2029, and discussing a successor now is not only premature but also against the spirit of Indian political culture.
Fadnavis's statement comes at a time when Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut raised questions about PM Modi's recent visit to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters. Raut claimed that the RSS is now deliberating on Modi's successor and a decision may be taken soon.
'Discussing a successor is not our tradition' - Fadnavis
Speaking at the Global Leadership Forum, Fadnavis said, "This is not the time to choose a successor, as Narendra Modi will lead the nation in 2029 as well. He is still guiding the country, and his vision extends to 2047. Therefore, speculating about 2029 is premature and unnecessary." He added sarcastically, "This tradition might be of the Mughals, where the announcement of a successor begins when the king grows old. But in Indian democracy, it is the people who decide, not some council in closed rooms."
Fadnavis's sharp retort to Raut's '75-year-old age' argument
Sanjay Raut had claimed that PM Modi will turn 75 this year and, according to BJP tradition, leaders should retire from active politics after this age. In response, Fadnavis stated, "Leadership is determined by vision, not by age. Modi's energy, dedication, and vision are still far more inspiring than many youngsters."
Questions also raised regarding the RSS visit
PM Modi's visit to the RSS headquarters in Nagpur also drew several political comments. Raut termed it a 'farewell visit' and claimed that the RSS might now bring forward a new face. However, BJP leaders described it as a 'cordial meeting' and said the visit was entirely personal and related to paying respects.
Devendra Fadnavis's clear statement indicates that there is no ambiguity regarding leadership within the BJP. The party's focus is not only on 2024 but also on a roadmap extending to 2029 and beyond, with Modi's leadership playing a central role. This message to the opposition is that the discussion of a 'successor' is still a distant prospect.
