An unprecedented situation is set to be witnessed in Maharashtra as the state’s budget session is scheduled to commence on February 23 without a formally recognised Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in either the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council. For the first time in the state’s legislative history, both Houses are expected to function simultaneously without an officially designated Opposition head.
The development has been attributed to the application of a long-standing convention under which a party must hold at least 10 per cent of the total strength of a House to qualify for recognition as LoP. In the 288-member Legislative Assembly, this threshold translates to 29 members. It has been noted that the largest Opposition party does not independently meet this numerical requirement. Although a senior legislator was proposed for the role in March 2025, no formal decision has been announced by the presiding authority.
A similar vacancy has been observed in the 78-member Legislative Council. The position has remained unoccupied since August 2025 following the conclusion of the previous Leader of the Opposition’s term. A recommendation has since been submitted by the largest Opposition party in the Upper House; however, the 10 per cent benchmark, which requires at least eight members, has remained a subject of interpretation amid changing party strengths.
It has been clarified by the Chief Minister that the recognition of the LoP does not fall within the government’s jurisdiction and that the matter rests solely with the Speaker of the Assembly and the Chairman of the Council. It has also been indicated that established conventions and precedents are being carefully examined before a determination is made.
Concerns have been raised by Opposition leaders, by whom it has been argued that the 10 per cent requirement is a convention rather than a constitutional mandate. It has been asserted that in previous instances, leaders of the largest Opposition parties were granted recognition despite not fulfilling the exact numerical condition. The absence of a recognised LoP has been described as a development that may weaken legislative oversight, particularly during debates on the state budget, finance bills, and appropriation measures.
While participation in debates will continue to be undertaken by Opposition members, the statutory authority and institutional standing associated with the office of the Leader of the Opposition will not be exercised unless recognition is granted. With the ruling alliance maintaining a commanding majority in both Houses, the final decision is awaited as the budget session approaches.