After 10 years, the Congress party has declared Rahul Gandhi as Leader of the Opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha. Kharge, a Congress chief, praised the decision and expressed confidence in Gandhi's ability to raise the voice of the marginalized and the poor. This is a significant development in Indian politics as there has been no Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha since 2014.
Rahul Gandhi Appointed Leader of Opposition
Background:
The position of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha is a crucial role in the Indian parliamentary system. It is held by the leader of the largest opposition party in the House and serves as a watchdog over the government's actions.
For the past ten years, the Lok Sabha has not had a Leader of Opposition due to the dominance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in both the 2014 and 2019 general elections. However, with the Congress party securing 52 seats in the 2019 election, Rahul Gandhi was declared as the Leader of Opposition on August 26, 2022.
Significance:
Gandhi's appointment marks a significant development in Indian politics as it re-establishes the role of the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. This position allows Gandhi to question the government on its policies, hold it accountable, and articulate the concerns of the opposition parties and the Indian people.
Praises for Gandhi:
Congress leaders have welcomed the decision and expressed confidence in Gandhi's ability to lead the opposition effectively. Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress chief, praised Gandhi's "firm determination" and "fearless commitment" to raise the voice of the marginalized and the poor.
Top 5 FAQs:
Q1: Who is Rahul Gandhi? A1: Rahul Gandhi is an Indian politician and the current Leader of the Congress party. He is the son of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and the grandson of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Q2: Why does the Lok Sabha need a Leader of Opposition? A2: The Leader of Opposition serves as a check on the government's power, holds it accountable, and provides an alternative perspective on national issues.
Q3: Who was the last Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha? A3: Sushma Swaraj served as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014.
Q4: What are Gandhi's responsibilities as Leader of Opposition? A4: Gandhi's responsibilities include questioning the government, initiating debates, holding press conferences, and participating in parliamentary committees.
Q5: What is the future of opposition politics in India? A5: Gandhi's appointment as Leader of Opposition is expected to revitalize opposition politics in India and provide a stronger voice to the marginalized and the poor.
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