Indian National Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been appointed as the Leader of Opposition (LOP) in the Lok Sabha. The Congress Working Committee made this decision on Tuesday night, designating Rahul Gandhi, the MP from Raebareli, to the position.
This marks the first time in 10 years that the Lok Sabha has a Leader of Opposition. In the previous two terms, Congress was unable to secure the 10% of total seats required for this position. In 2014, Congress won only 42 seats, and in 2019, they secured 52 seats, just three short of the necessary number to have a Leader of Opposition.
The Constitution of India does not mention the Leader of Opposition; instead, this post was established by the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, which recognizes the LOP as a statutory authority.
The role of the opposition is crucial in a democratic government. Their primary responsibility is to provide constructive criticism and highlight the shortcomings of the ruling party. The presence of a Leader of Opposition ensures transparency and a system of checks and balances in governance.
