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Now that the INC will be given the opposition status by virtue of its increased strength unlike last time when it attained the status in spite of being ineligible, there is palpable excitement as to whether Rahul Gandhi would don the role of LOP which will be offered on a silver platter by the party, more out of sycophancy rather than the ability to face Gullivers like Modi and Shah who would love to make a mincemeat out of him. Not that he is not a good speaker – he has come of age and is able to make an impact in election rallies resulting in garnering more votes for the party. But the job in Lok Sabha as an LOP is far different. In view of the increased strength of the opposition alliance, it is all the more pertinent to have an effective and experienced LOP who will not resort to theatric, rhetoric and dramatics. It is a golden opportunity for the opposition alliance almost having half the strength of the parliament and it should strategically use this in running the house than simply going on one point agenda of how to pull down the government. That can be done outside the House any way. Inside the House, people would be seriously wanting to know what is being presented by the government and how is the opposition countering it not simply for opposing it but by giving something suggestive, informative and reformative.The ruling party will naturally be looking for the weak points from LOP which they might find aplenty if Rahul takes over the mantle. LOP in the present scenario has to be a leader who is able to keep the alliance parties in good humour and have the ability of making them sail with him with a common agenda of not simply scoring a point or two but rather make a meaningful contribution so that everything discussed, debated and argued upon goes for the public’s good. We need an LOP who is ready to spend more midnight oil, prepare thoroughly and put across important points as this time the Speaker cannot stop giving the required time because the ruling party does not have brute majority to bulldoze opposition MPs. Is it not prudent for the INC to have a brain storming session in this regard and have an LOP who should be responsible, constructive and persuade the government to be responsive instead of glossing over the bills more as a formality as it used to happen in the last Lok Sabha.?
The LOP’s focus should be not on what people see on TV during his/her parliament debate but rather show perseverance more than sarcasm and see that what he speaks gets translated into action and in public interest. Every time we tend to ask what government does but people are vigilant enough to see whether the opposition leaders are also representing their grievances in a no nonsense manner on public issues etc effectively. The INC should not regret later in choosing a wrong LOP. Better to plan thoroughly in choosing the right LOP who can take on the government responsibly and usefully.
While the ruling party would try its best to get the bills passed with minimum discussion, the opposition parties should just do the opposite. Extract maximum time for in depth discussion and should be able to thwart any such action that tends to bypass the parliamentary procedure and rules. Excellent coordination between various parties of the INDIA Alliance should be the mantra for LOP whoever he/she is.
All Under The Sky 