New Delhi/IBNS: After 10 years, thc country, which has witnessed a close contest between Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition INDIA bloc in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, has got a Leader of Opposition as the Congress, the main opponent camp, has managed to get the desired number of seats for the post.
The Congress with its 99 seats has managed to secure the LoP post after serving a rare 10 years in the opposition bench.
Rahul Gandhi, the de facto supreme leader of Congress alongside his mother and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi, has been picked as the LoP by the grand old party, which has ruled the country for decades since Independence but out of power for three consecutive terms since 2014.
Gandhi, an MP from Rae Bareli, recently made a stormy debut address to the Lok Sabha stirring row with his Hindu remark strongly opposed by the treasury bench, led by no less than Prime Minister Modi.
As per the Constitution, Gandhi is holding a powerful post, which was previously held by tall leaders like late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sonia Gandhi, LK Advani, Sharad Pawar, in Parliament being entitled to several powers and perks.
Take a look at some of his perks and powers
1. Monthly salary and daily allowances at the rates of Section 3 of the Salary, Allowances and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954.
2. Travel and daily allowances- equivalent to the one received by Union Cabinet Minister- for tours undertaken to discharge duties
3. Travel allowance for himself and his family to and from Delhi.
4. The LoP can be present during foreign dignitaries official visit to India and can engage in dialogue with them
5. The LoP and his/her family can avail free admission and treatment at government hospital
6. No income tax on certain perquisites
7. The LoP can guide the Speaker-elect to the Chair
8. Office with staff in Parliament complex, residence in New Delhi (the national capital) including staff quarters, buildings and garden
9. Money for electricity and water for maintenance of his residence
10. Money to buy a car
11. Designated seat in the House in front row to the left of Speakers Chair
12. Front row seat during the Presidents address to both the house of Parliament
