THE LEADER OF OPPOSITION IN LOK SABHA
It is essential we have a Leader of Opposition
(LOP) in our Lok Sabha for
proper and effective functioning of democracy in our Parliamentary system and to ensure
effective monitoring of govt. functioning as LOP.
on behalf
of the entire Indian Citizens. This requirement needs no justification.
The Opposition’s main role is to question the government
of the day and hold them accountable. Their
role include scrutinizing the policies and administration of the Government and
take active part in the Address-in-Reply debate, Budget debates, debates on legislation,
notices of motion and No Confidence Motions
etc. Members of the Opposition who are members
of Parliamentary Committees must have a say
in any new legislation as part of the
Committee process. The Opposition through the media can reach the Citizens with
its views. Leader of Opposition plays a vital
role in all these activities. He is also a member of Selection Committee in the
appointment of Constituent authorities like Central Vigilance Commission, Lok
Pal etc. Therefore, we must have a Leader Of Opposition and there can be no second
view on this.
However, as per
present rules, to be recognized as a Opposition Party, they should have a
minimum of 54 members (i.e. 10% of the
total strength 0f 543). Since Congress, the 2nd largest party, has only 44 members they do not qualify to be
main opposition party and hence can not elect Leader of Opposition, by
themselves .
Every Indian Citizen will agree that the Leader of
Opposition must
represent majority view of opposition members in the Lok
Sabha. Congress party with just 44 members against the total of 207 opposition
members is in minority and hence cannot elect their own LOP.
The right way should be all Opposition Members should jointly elect the LOP by secret ballot.
Any opposition party can nominate their
Candidate
to contest for the Post of LOP.
Independent members also are eligible to
contest. Member getting maximum votes should be declared “LEADER OF OPPOSITION”.
This method is not only reasonable but logical and will certainly meet the test of natural
justice. Giving in to the demand of
Congress having their own LOP will be a mockery of Indian Democracy.
How can anyone even think Congress Party with just 44
members could truly represent 207 opposition members’ views. As a citizen, we want the TRUE VOICE of Opposition
to be heard in the Parliament and
NOT from a member
representing a minority party. This
method can be
followed as a “Convention”.
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