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UPSC » Daily News Analysis ‘Leader of Opposition (LoP) ‘: 27 June

Daily News Analysis ‘Leader of Opposition (LoP) ‘: 27 June

Recently, Rahul Gandhi, a member of the Indian National Congress, has been named the "Leader of Opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha".

Table of Content

About Leader of Opposition (LoP):

    • The LoP is the head of the largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha with at least one-tenth of the total seats.
    • The LoP plays a crucial role in ensuring government accountability and transparency.
    • This role involves scrutinizing and challenging the government’s policies and decisions, proposing alternatives, and representing the opposition’s viewpoints.
    • The LoP in both Houses has statutory recognition and receives salary, allowances, and facilities equivalent to a cabinet minister under the Parliament Act, 1977.
    • The office of the LoP is not mentioned in the Constitution.
  • Conditions need to recognise as Leader of Opposition:

o   The party should be numerically the biggest one in opposition to the government.

o   Party should be recognised by the Speaker as a party.

 

Role and Powers of LoP:

  • Roles:
      • The LoP will serve important committees like Public Account (Chairman), Public Undertaking, Estimates and Joint Parliamentary Committees.
  • He is entitled to membership on selection committees appointing heads of bodies like the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), Central Information Commission (CIC), CBI, NHRC, and Lokpal.
    • Scrutiny and Accountability: Leads the opposition in scrutinizing government policies and actions, ensuring accountability to parliament and the public.
    • Policy Alternative: Proposes alternative policies and strategies, offering a different vision for national governance.
    • Coordination: Coordinates opposition activities and strategies, ensuring a unified and effective stance against the government.
  • Powers:
    • Influence in Parliamentary Committees: Participates in parliamentary committees, shaping and influencing discussions and outcomes.
    • Legislative Influence: Has significant legislative influence, capable of mobilizing opposition to block or amend government bills and policies.

Why in the News?

  • Recently, Rahul Gandhi, a member of the Indian National Congress, has been named the “Leader of Opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha”.