‘Serve Until Your Last Breath’:Kharge Advocates No Retirement Age in Politics

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 10th Sept. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has called for the abolition of a retirement age in politics, asserting that those with a strong ideological conviction and a commitment to public service should continue their work until the end of their lives.

His remarks came during the launch of Congress veteran Sushil Kumar Shinde’s memoir, “Five Decades in Politics,” co-written with journalist-author Rasheed Kidwai.

Addressing the audience, Kharge, who is 82 years old, urged Shinde, now 83, to remain active in politics, emphasizing that age should not deter one from contributing to the party and its ideology. He referenced former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who was India’s oldest prime minister at 81, to illustrate his point.

“You are 82-83 only. Look at Morarji Desai. I believe no one should retire in politics. Those who have faith in their ideology and wish to serve their community must work till their last breath and awaken the people of their country,” Kharge said.

Kharge clarified that the commitment to politics should not be driven by a desire for high office but as a “return gift” to the nation and the political party that has supported one’s career. He expressed hope that Shinde will continue to contribute to the Congress party, reflecting on his illustrious five-decade career.

Shinde, who served as Chief Minister of Maharashtra from 2003 to 2004, Governor of Andhra Pradesh from 2004 to 2006, and Union Home Minister from 2012 to 2014, thanked the Congress party and its leaders, including the late former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and former Congress President Sonia Gandhi. He acknowledged their role in his career and expressed gratitude for their support.

Kharge also praised Shinde’s positive demeanor and patience, contrasting it with what he perceived as a lack of substantive action by some contemporary leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Shinde has amazing patience and an ever-present smile. To maintain such an attitude for 50 years is remarkable. His achievements, including his roles as chief minister, home minister, and governor, reflect his dedication and resilience,” Kharge remarked.

The book launch event was also attended by Rajya Sabha MP and senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh. The memoir, priced at Rs 599, is published by HarperCollins India. Shinde’s book aims to inspire others by documenting his extensive career in public service.