In a parliamentary democracy, the opposition keeps the government accountable. The Leader of Opposition (LoP) is the official head of the opposition in each House of Parliament. Here is how the post works in the Lok Sabha.
Who becomes Leader of Opposition
The LoP is the leader of the largest party in opposition to the government, recognised as such by the Speaker. The Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, defines the Leader of Opposition as the leader of the largest opposition party that has been recognised by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
By practice, based on a direction of the Speaker, a party has generally needed at least 10 percent of the total seats in the House, which is 55 seats in the Lok Sabha, to be recognised. This rule is not written in the Constitution.
Years without a LoP
The Lok Sabha did not have a recognised Leader of Opposition from 2014 to 2024, as no opposition party had 10 percent of seats. After the 2024 Lok Sabha election, Rahul Gandhi of the Indian National Congress was recognised as Leader of Opposition in June 2024.
Rank and benefits
Under the 1977 Act, the LoP gets salary, allowances and other facilities equal to a Cabinet Minister, including staff and an official residence. The LoP sits in the front row on the left of the Chair.
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Role in committees
The LoP, or the leader of the single largest opposition party where there is no recognised LoP, is a member of several selection panels, including those that recommend:
- The Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
- The Central Vigilance Commissioner and Vigilance Commissioners
- The Chairperson and Members of the Lokpal
- The Chief Information Commissioner
- The Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners, under the 2023 law
- The Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission
Functions in the House
- Leads opposition debate on bills, the Budget and policy
- Moves or supports motions to question the government
- Speaks for the opposition on national issues
- Works with the government on matters like House business through consultations
Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha has its own Leader of Opposition, recognised by the Chairman.
Bottom line
The Leader of Opposition is a key office in Parliament, with a Cabinet rank and a voice in selecting heads of important institutions.
Source / स्रोत: Lok Sabha, Legislative Department, Ministry of Law
