Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha in India – UPSC – Edukemy

In India’s Lok Sabha, the Leader of the Opposition plays a significant role as the head of the largest political party not in power. This position is crucial for maintaining a balance of power and ensuring that different viewpoints are represented in parliamentary debates and decision-making processes. The Leader of the Opposition leads discussions on important issues, critiques government policies, and provides an alternative vision for governance. They act as a voice for citizens who may have concerns or different perspectives from those of the ruling party, aiming to hold the government accountable and ensure transparency in legislative proceedings. This role is essential in upholding democracy by fostering robust debate and oversight within India’s parliamentary system.

Tags: GS-2 , Polity & Governance – Parliament – Lok Sabha 

Context:  

• The position of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha is pivotal in parliamentary democracies like India’s, ensuring robust checks and balances.  
• It serves as a crucial role in holding the government accountable by offering alternative policies and viewpoints.  

• The recent appointment of Rahul Gandhi from the Congress party to this position highlights its ongoing relevance in Indian politics, sparking discussions on its effectiveness in maintaining democratic norms and challenging the ruling party’s decisions. 

What is the Leader of Opposition? 

• Leader of Opposition Role:  
  • The Leader of Opposition in India heads the largest party not in government in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.  
  • This crucial position ensures vigorous debate and scrutiny of government actions, maintaining democratic checks and balances. 
• Statutory Recognition:  
  • Enshrined in the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977. 
  • The Leader of Opposition plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and presenting alternative solutions to those proposed by the ruling party, fostering accountability. 
• Qualification Criteria:  
  • To be formally recognized as the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, a party must hold at least 10% of the total seats in the respective house.  
  • This criterion ensures that the opposition is a substantial and credible force capable of fulfilling its parliamentary duties effectively. 
• Members: 
  • The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha chairs committees like PAC, Public Undertakings, and Estimates, and serves on JPCs. 
  • They also participate in selection committees appointing heads of bodies like CVC, CIC, CBI, NHRC, and Lokpal. 

Historical context: 

• The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha has a deep historical foundation in Indian politics, originating from the former Central Legislative Assembly during British rule. 
• Early stalwarts like Motilal Nehru received early recognition, setting a precedent for its statutory establishment. 
• Formally defined by the 1977 Act, the Leader of Opposition became integral to India’s parliamentary framework.  
• In 2014, following Congress Party’s loss of both ruling status and the LoP position, their request for the post was denied by Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. 
• In the new term, Rahul Gandhi of the Congress Party has regained the LoP position after winning 99 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. 

Benefits: 

• Salary and Allowances:  
  • Governed by the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, the Leader of Opposition receives a salary equivalent to a Cabinet Minister. 
  • This includes allowances for constituency expenses, official residence, staff support, and travel. 
• Facilities:  
  • Access to resources such as office space, secretarial assistance, and communication infrastructure to facilitate parliamentary duties effectively. 

Responsibilities of the  Leader of Opposition: 

• Scrutiny of Government Policies: The Leader of Opposition critically examines government policies and legislative proposals to ensure they serve the public interest and are based on sound principles. 
• Presenting Alternative Policies: It is the duty of the Leader of Opposition to present alternative policies and viewpoints, providing voters and legislators with choices and fostering constructive debates in Parliament. 
• Ensuring Accountability: Holding the government accountable for its actions, including challenging decisions perceived as contrary to public welfare or constitutional norms. 
• Protecting Democratic Values: Upholding democratic values, including the rights of minorities, freedom of expression, and adherence to constitutional principles. 
• Representation of Minority Views: Advocating for the views and concerns of minority groups and individuals who may not be represented adequately in the ruling coalition. 

Source: IE 

FAQs

1. What is the role of the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha?

The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha is the leader of the largest political party that is not in power. Their main role is to represent the views and concerns of their party and other opposition parties during parliamentary debates. They critique government policies, offer alternative perspectives, and ensure that the government is held accountable for its actions.

2. How is the Leader of Opposition selected in the Lok Sabha?

The Leader of Opposition is usually the leader of the largest political party in the Lok Sabha that is not part of the ruling coalition. If no single party has enough seats to claim the position, opposition parties may collectively decide on their leader to hold this position.

3. What powers and privileges does the Leader of Opposition have?

The Leader of Opposition enjoys certain powers and privileges to effectively perform their role. They have the right to be consulted by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha on matters related to parliamentary proceedings and the appointment of parliamentary committees. They also receive allowances and facilities similar to those of a Cabinet Minister to carry out their duties.

4. What are the responsibilities of the Leader of Opposition outside parliamentary sessions?

Outside of parliamentary sessions, the Leader of Opposition plays a crucial role in coordinating opposition strategies, mobilizing support for their party’s positions on national issues, and interacting with the media to articulate their party’s stance. They also engage in public outreach to communicate with voters and build public awareness on key issues.

5. How does the Leader of Opposition contribute to democracy in India?

The Leader of Opposition contributes to democracy by ensuring that diverse viewpoints are heard in the legislative process. They act as a check on the government’s power, challenging policies and decisions that may not serve the interests of all citizens. By fostering debate and dialogue, they help maintain a healthy balance of power and accountability within India’s parliamentary system.

To get free counseling/support on UPSC preparation from expert mentors please call 9773890604

1. Join our Main Telegram Channel and access PYQs, Current Affairs and UPSC  Guidance for free – Edukemy for IAS
2. Learn Economy for free- Economy for UPSC
3. Mains Answer Writing Practice-Mains Answer Writing
4. For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here

Visit our YouTube Channel – Here