Overview
A No-Confidence Motion is a parliamentary device through which the Lok Sabha can remove the Council of Ministers from office by expressing that it no longer has confidence in the government.
It is a key mechanism to ensure collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers to the Lok Sabha under Article 75(3) of the Constitution of India.
Constitutional and Procedural Basis
- Not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
- Derived from the principle of collective responsibility under Article 75(3).
- Procedure governed by Rule 198 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha.
Who Can Move It
- Any member of the Lok Sabha can move a no-confidence motion.
- It must be supported by at least 50 members to be admitted for discussion.
Procedure
- The member gives written notice to the Speaker before the commencement of the sitting.
- The Speaker reads the motion in the House.
- If at least 50 members stand in support, the motion is admitted.
- The Speaker allots time for debate, usually within 10 days.
- After discussion, the House votes on the motion.
Majority Required
- A simple majority of members present and voting is required.
- If the motion is passed, the Council of Ministers must resign.
Features
- Can be moved only in the Lok Sabha, not in the Rajya Sabha.
- Does not require stating specific reasons.
- If defeated, the government continues in office.
Significance
- Ensures accountability of the executive to the legislature.
- Reflects the essence of parliamentary democracy.
- Acts as a tool for opposition to test the government’s majority.
- Reinforces democratic checks and balances.
Difference from Related Motions
- Confidence Motion: Initiated by the government to prove majority.
- Censure Motion: Requires specific charges; may not lead to resignation.
- Adjournment Motion: Raises urgent matters but does not directly test majority.
Conclusion
The No-Confidence Motion is a fundamental instrument of parliamentary control over the executive. Several no-confidence motions have been moved in Indian parliamentary history. Some have led to the fall of governments, especially in coalition eras. It operationalizes the principle of collective responsibility and ensures that the government remains accountable to the elected representatives of the people in the Lok Sabha.
