What is the difference between a no-confidence motion and trust vote

New Delhi, July 19: There are 535 members in the House and the magic number is 268. On Wednesday, a no-confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government was accepted.

Here we provide you a ready reckoner on how a no-confidence motion works. Also find out what is the difference between a no-confidence motion and a trust vote.

What is no-confidence motion?

A no-confidence motion is usually moved by the opposition when it feels that the ruling government does not enjoy a majority in the House any longer. No reason is required to move such a motion.

A no-confidence motion can be moved by any member of the house and can be done only in the Lok Sabha and not the Rajya Sabha. Such a motion is moved under Rule 198 of the Rules of of Procedure. A member has to give a written notice of the motion before 10 am, which is then read out by the Speaker of the House.

A minimum of 50 members have to accept the motion and the Speaker would accordingly announce the date for the discussion on the motion. The Speaker would have to allot a date 10 days from the day the motion is accepted. In case the government fails to prove its majority, then the government has to resign.

What is a trust-vote?

A confidence motion or a trust vote is a procedure for the government to prove its majority in the House. A trust vote can take place by way of a motion of confidence which is moved by the government or brought by the opposition. It is a motion normally proposed by the Prime Minister to test the majority in the Lok Sabha.

Such an exercise normally takes place when a new government is set to be formed. Any party will first have to prove its majority on the floor of the House before taking over. A trust vote can also be brought about if a government resigns and another party stakes a claim to form the government.