In any democracy, the role of the opposition is as vital as that of the government. It serves as the conscience of governance, holding those in power accountable and ensuring that the voices of all citizens are heard. Democracy thrives on the principle of accountability, with the ruling party being consistently monitored for its policies and action through meaningful debates, deliberations and scrutiny within and outside Parliament.

A robust opposition acts as a check against the misuse of power, protecting the interests of the public and ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in policy making. However, in India, the political landscape has long suffered from the absence of an effective opposition ~ a void that has left critical issues unaddressed and the democratic process weakened. Since India’s independence in 1947, the opposition has struggled to establish itself as a formidable force.

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The first Leader of the Opposition, Ram Subhag Singh, was appointed only in 1969, more than two decades after independence. Since then, the position has often been symbolic rather than impactful. In the last decade, the absence of a cohesive and proactive opposition has been glaring. While the current Parliament does have a Leader of Opposition, the role often seems reduced to acrimonious debates and personal attacks, leaving pressing issues untouched.

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The absence of a strong opposition, particularly under an authoritarian regime, poses a significant threat to the nation’s democratic fabric. Policy-making can become one-sided, excluding the views and aspirations of marginalised communities and other critical stakeholders. The weakening of this crucial institution risks transforming the democratic system into a mere formality, devoid of its intended vibrancy and inclusivity. Several factors contribute to this dismal representation:

* Fragmentation and Lack of Unity: Despite forming a coalition of 26 parties, the opposition remains fragmented, with differing ideologies and working styles. This lack of coherence prevents them from presenting a united single front capable of challenging the ruling party effectively.

* Proliferation of Political Parties: The 2024 elections saw a staggering 744 parties contesting, a sharp rise from just 53 in 1952. While diversity in political representation is a hallmark of democracy, the fragmentation often dilutes the impact of the opposition. Many of these parties........

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