In the
Rajya Sabha until 1969, the title of opposition leader only existed de facto and had no formal recognition, status or privilege. Later, the leader of the opposition was given official recognition and their salary and allowances was extended by the Act, 1977. Since then, the leader in the Rajya Sabha should satisfy three conditions, namely, • he should be a member of the House • of the party in opposition to the Government having the greatest numerical strength and • be recognised by the
chairperson of the Rajya Sabha In December 1969, the Congress Party (O) was recognised as the main opposition party in the parliament while its leader, Shyam Nandan Mishra plays the role of opposition leader.
M. S. Gurupadaswamy was later elected the leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha after
Shyam Nandan Prasad Mishra completed his tenure. However, Gurupadaswamy's appointment was declared with no formal announcement. ==Role and responsibilities==