Published on: February 12, 2026

NO-CONFIDENCE MOTION

NO-CONFIDENCE MOTION

News: The Opposition has moved a no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla

REMOVAL OF THE LOK SABHA SPEAKER

  • The Speaker and Deputy Speaker: Can be removed only by the Lok Sabha
    • The Rajya Sabha has no role in this process

Constitutional basis

  • Removal is provided under: Article 94 (c)
    • It states that the Speaker or Deputy Speaker can be removed: “by a resolution of the House of the People passed by a majority of all the then members of the House”

Conditions under which the Speaker vacates office

  • Article 94: A Speaker or Deputy Speaker vacates office if:
    • Ceases to be a Member of Lok Sabha (Article 94(a))
    • Resigns voluntarily by writing to the House (Article 94(b))
    • Is removed by a resolution of Lok Sabha (Article 94(c))

Procedure for removal

Step 1: Notice

  • A written notice must be given to the Secretary-General of Lok Sabha
  • It can be given by two or more MPs jointly
  • Minimum 14 days’ notice is mandatory

Step 2: Motion for leave

  • After notice, a motion seeking leave to move the resolution is listed
  • The date must be: At least 14 days after receipt of notice
    • Fixed by the Speaker

Step 3: Support of Members (crucial stage)

On the listed day:

  • At least 50 MPs must rise in support: Quorum requirement
  • If 50 MPs rise → Leave is granted
  • If fewer than 50 rise → Motion lapses immediately

Step 4: Discussion and voting

  • Once leave is granted: Resolution is scheduled within 10 days
  • Debate is held: Strictly limited to the charges mentioned
  • The mover may speak: Maximum 15 minutes, only if allowed by the presiding officer

Step 5: Majority required

  • Removal requires: Majority of the total strength of Lok Sabha
  • Not just those present and voting

Speaker’s role during the motion

Even when their removal is under discussion:

  • The Speaker: Continues in office, has the right to speak, can participate in proceedings
  • Voting rights:
    • Can vote in the first instance
    • Cannot vote to break a tie
  • If Lok Sabha is dissolved: Speaker continues till just before the first sitting of the new House