LoP necessary for proper functioning of govt.: P C Chacko

Congress spokesperson P C Chacko said Saturday that it is necessary for the functioning of the government to have a Leader of Opposition (LoP).

Chacko told ANI, "I think he has not examined the rules for governing this particular post. He has just reframed some old rules."

"So many things have happened after this 10% rule. Now, to appoint a CBC one needs a LoP. How are they going to do that?

If the government wants to function in a democratic manner, it is not our demand. They should see to it. Congress being the single largest party in the country and also it is necessary for the functioning of the government to have a LoP," he added.

The tussle between the government and the Congress on the issue of Leader of the Opposition in the lower house of parliament has been going on ever since the 16th Lok Sabha came into its existence, with the Congress pushing its case for the post on grounds that it has the most seats (44) in the opposition.

Currently, the leader of the opposition is equivalent to the rank of a cabinet minister. The leader of opposition also has an important role to play in several key government appointments, such as Chief Vigilance Commissioner.