Leader of opposition (LoP)

About:

• • The LoP is the one who leads the largest opposition party in either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
  • Its role is defined under the Salaries and Allowances of Leader of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977.
  • The minimum numerical strengthrequired for a member to be LoP is one-tenth of the total membership of the respective House.

Evolution:

• • Informal origin:
    • Roots can be traced from concept of shadow cabinet in British Parliamentary system (Westminister model).
    • In 1969, the importance of role of LoP was recognized for the first time.
  • Statutory recognition (1977):
    • The formal recognition of the Leader of Opposition in India came from the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977.
    • This Act provided for the salary, allowances, and other facilities for the Leader of Opposition.
  • Constitutional amendments and parliamentary rules:
    • The Forty-Fourth Amendment of 1978 formally recognized the position of the Leader of Opposition.
    • Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha specify the rights and privileges of the Leader of Opposition in parliamentary proceedings, committees, and debates.
  • Legal framework and status:
    • The Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977 laid down the legal framework for the role, ensuring financial support and entitlements.
    • Parliament Facilities act in 1998, provided that strength for LoP be equal to that of quorum i.e. 55 seats.
  • Institutionalization of LoP
    • The LoP is made a member of selection committee of important bodies like NHRC, CVC, Lokpal, CBI, CIC etc.
    • The Leader of Opposition’s role in parliamentary committees like the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to ensure oversight of government expenditure and accountability.

Significance:

• • Check on the arbitrariness of ruling government
  • Enriches parliamentary debates and discussions by providing alternative view
  • Serves as a shadow cabinet
  • Promoting ethical conduct

Challenges:

Way forward:

• • Legislative reforms to clarify and strengthen the position of the LoP
  • Institutional support for effective oversight.
  • Cross-party collaboration and consensus-building
  • Ethical Governance