AIR 17 · CSE 2024 · GS2 · 56 pages

Sanskriti Trivedy: GS2 answer copy

20 answers by Sanskriti Trivedy, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 198 words written

Expression of dissent is central to the functioning of the Parliament. In light of this, discuss the role of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in India's parliamentary system.

Opening · a definition

Parliament expresses the voice of opposition through Leader of opposition, legally defined as the leader of party having second largest number of MPs as per Salaries and Allowance of Leader of Opposition Act.

Body · points

Expression of Dissent essential because:

  1. To express various opinions
  2. A check on executive excess and balance of powers
  3. To ensure the spirit of laws and constitutionalism are upheld
  4. To propose alternative opinions and laws like - private members bill

Role of Leader of Opposition

  1. To funnel the divided voice of opinion and express it to government
  2. To check majoritarian and rushed policies
  3. Lateral entry withdrawn as reservation not taken
  4. On British lines of shadow parliament, have an alternative vision ready for policies
  5. To ensure socially and regionally equitable policies so that ruling party doesn't miss out on the margins
  6. In appointment of various bodies eg Central Info Commissioner

However criticism to role

  1. Obstructinary role - as seen in 17th Lok Sabha - 55 cases of disruption.
  2. As ideologically parties are not much different - leads to identity politics

Close · a summary

Dissent and opposing voices enrich debates and ensure dialectics of ideas to give best policies.