Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla officially recognized former Congress President Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of the Opposition in the House.
He is representing Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh in the Lok Sabha this time.
Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi had sent a letter to Lok Sabha Acting Speaker (Pro tem Speaker) Bhartruhari Mahtab informing him about the Congress' decision that Rahul Gandhi would be the Leader of the Opposition.
Rahul Gandhi said, "Heartfelt thanks to the people of the country, Congress workers and colleagues of 'India' for showing faith in me. Leader of the Opposition is not just a post - it is a huge responsibility to become your voice and fight for your interests and rights."
The Congress leader said, "Our Constitution is the biggest weapon of the poor, the deprived, the minorities, farmers, laborers and we will protect it by responding with full force to every attack on it. I am yours and for you only."
As the Leader of the Opposition, Gandhi will now be given the status of a Cabinet Minister. This will also increase his place in the protocol list.
As the Leader of Opposition, he will also be a member of important panels on key appointments such as Lokpal, Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director, besides selections related to Central Vigilance Commission, Central Information Commission and National Human Rights. The Prime Minister heads these panels.
Apart from receiving salary and other perks and allowances specified in Section 3 of the Salary, Allowances and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954, Rahul Gandhi as an MP will be entitled to the assistance of a Secretary in the same status and pay scale and will also have personal staff like a Cabinet Minister.
