No-Confidence Motion

In an effort to compel PM Modi to speak on the ongoing strife in Manipur in Parliament, which has brought the monsoon session to a standstill, opposition parties decided to move a no-confidence motion against the government, with a particular focus on the situation in the north-eastern issue.

What is a no-confidence motion?

• About: A no-confidence motion is a parliamentary process that allows the opposition to challenge the government's majority and ability to govern.
  • If the motion is passed, the government must resign.
• Who can move? Any member of the Lok Sabha can move a no-confidence motion. However, the motion must be supported by at least 50 members of the House.
• How is it moved? A no-confidence motion must be in writing and must be signed by the member moving it. The motion must be submitted to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha on any day on which the House is sitting.
• Aftermath: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha will decide whether to admit the motion for discussion and debate. If the motion is admitted, the Speaker will then decide on the date and time for the discussion. The Speaker may grant time for the discussion of the motion (under sub-rule (2) and (3) of rule 198 of Lok Sabha Rules.
• Debate: The no-confidence motion will be debated in the Lok Sabha. The motion will be moved by the member who submitted it, and the government will then respond to the motion. The opposition parties will then have the opportunity to speak on the motion.
• Vote: After the debate, the Lok Sabha will vote on the no-confidence motion. The motion will be passed if it is supported by a majority of the members of the House.
• Outcome:
  • If a no-confidence motion is passed, the government must resign.
  • If the government wins the vote on the no-confidence motion, the motion is defeated and the government remains in power.