The 18th Lok Sabha is set to receive a leader of the opposition (LoP) after ten years, with the increasing numbers of the I.N.D.I.A. bloc parties. The lower house is also anticipating the election of a deputy speaker, a post left vacant for the past five years.
During the term of the 17th Lok Sabha, which dissolved on June 5, a deputy speaker was not elected, marking the second consecutive term without an LoP. Opposing parties are hopeful that the vacant positions will be filled this time.
Pressure is mounting on the BJP government to elect a deputy speaker, as previous terms have lacked this crucial position. The post of LoP is crucial for legislative functioning, ensuring effective debate and representation of the opposition’s voice.
The 18th Lok Sabha also marks the return of the LoP after a decade, with Congress expected to fill the role with its substantial number of 99 MPs.
Published on 09 June 2024, 15:28 IST