Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Let there be constructive opposition' that was published in Newsband

Let there be constructive opposition

An effective Opposition is very necessary in parliament. It is said that if no Opposition exists, one may have to be created. Also, if there is no Opposition outside, there is every danger that it may grow within.

Right from the first Lok Sabha, the practice has been to recognise the leader of the largest party in Opposition as the LoP provided that party has a strength that is enough to constitute the quorum for a sitting of the House, or one-tenth of the total membership of the House — at present that comes to 55 members.

In the recently concluded election to the Lok Sabha, the Opposition was decimated, but thankfully not obliterated. In fact, the largest party in Opposition, the Congress, has improved its position from 44 in 2014 to 52 now. It is short of only three members to reach the magical number of 55.

The 1977 law does not provide for the requirement of 55 members as an essential pre-requisite. As it all depends on the Speaker’s directions and discretion, it may be hoped that rightful action will be taken.

It is absence of meaningful opposition that people should be worried off not the absence of LOP. LOP is not just supposed to obstruct parliament and waste public exchequer. It must be noted that opposition doesn't mean often repeating allegations which have been replied but means rebutting with rational arguments and reliable evidence the reply given. This requires knowledgeable and well-read persons and not Government designated LOP.

There should be an understanding between ruling & opposition parties for smooth sailing. Congress has seen everything in a very narrow and communal aspects to thwart the ruling party and vice versa. Broadness should be developed by our political parties.

The Lok Sabha had no recognized Leader of the Opposition (LOP) until 1969. Also, the post was vacant between 1980 and 1989, simply because no party fulfilled 1/10 seat criterion. But in those times Congress was in power. Now there is so much demand for LOP post, like it was in 2014, perhaps because Congress in not in power in these times, and needs LOP post.

Any opposition should learn to become constructive opposition to criticize government actions where necessary instead of just opposing government for the sake of it with the support of their contingent in Parliament. 52 is a good number also to solidly raise any issue & defend. These people should suspend politics for good of the country and people and try to cooperate with the Government in all its initiatives, unlike in the past when they wasted hell of a lot of precious and expensive parliamentary time by raising bogus issues like Rafale & 'suit/boot'.

It is disgusting how political parties try to belittle each other. The fact is, the anti-Modi brigade tried it's best to bring Congress back to power, propping up Rahul, a failed politician. Now that they have failed for the second consecutive time, they are propping up Congress for the consolation prize of 'Leader of the Opposition' in the LS.