What is the significance of the Leader of Opposition in the Indian parliamentary system? How does the role of the opposition contribute to the checks and balances in a democracy?

The Leader of Opposition LoP is a statutory post given to the leader of the longest opposition party in parliament securing atleast 1/10th of votes. Role of Leader of Opposition: (1) LoP represents the collective voice of the opposition (2) Providing a constructive critique to government policies on floor of house (3) Proposing alternatives to government policies (4) LoP is often seen as alternative Prime Minister in case government loses majority. (5) LoP meets common citizens and raises their issues in parliament Checks and balances provided by opposition in democracy: