The Telugu Desam Party, a former ally of the BJP, wants to move a no confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government.

What is a no confidence motion?

If a no confidence motion, also called a no trust motion, is passed, then the prime minister will have to resign.

What is the TDP trying to do?

The TDP along with rival YSR Congress is keen to move a no confidence motion. The Left and the Congress have said that they would support it.

When was a no confidence motion first moved?

Acharya Kripalani moved the first-ever no confidence motion on the floor of the Lok Sabha in August 1963.

Is there is a trust motion?

Yes. The government moves a vote of confidence. If the motion is defeated, then the government has to go.

When was a trust motion moved?

The UPA government moved and won a trust vote in 2008.

How many members are needed to move a no trust motion?

A minimum 50 members are required to move a no confidence motion.

So, what numbers does TDP have?

The TDP has 15 members and the YSR Congress eight. Together, they have 23 members in total. But, other parties are ready to support them.

Where is the no confidence motion moved?

A motion of no confidence can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha.

What happens when the ruling party has an absolute majority?

The government won’t be impacted since the ruling party will issue a whip. So, it will be impossible to remove the government. However, there is a lot of symbolism.

What role does the Speaker play?

If the Speaker is of opinion that the motion is in order, the Speaker shall read the motion to the House and shall request those members who are in favour of leave being granted to rise in their places, and if not less than fifty members rise accordingly, the Speaker shall declare that leave is granted and that the motion will be taken up on such day, not being more than ten days from the date on which the leave is asked for as the Speaker may appoint. If less than fifty members rise, the Speaker shall inform that the member has not the leave of the House, according to Lok Sabha rules.