Leader of Opposition

Context: Mallikaarjun Kharje is set to succeed Ghulam Nabi Azad as the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha.

Concept:

It is the leader of the largest opposition political party not having less than 1/10^th of the total seats of the house. (Ex- In Lok Sabha a party which is largest opposition party and has at least 55 seats can stake claim).
In 1969 for the first-time official leader of opposition was recognized.
It is a statutory office under the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in the Parliament Act, 1977.
The Speaker needs to recognize him/her as the Leader of Opposition.
His main role is to provide for constructive criticism of the government and provide for a ready alternate government.
They are entitled salary, allowances and other facilities equivalent to that of cabinet minister.
Currently, there is no leader of opposition in Lok Sabha as the Congress has 52 seats only.