Censure Motion

Definition

A motion expressing the House's strong disapproval of the policies or conduct of the government or a particular minister, which must state the grounds of censure.

Key points

• It can be moved against an individual minister, a group of ministers, or the entire Council of Ministers.
• Unlike a concept no confidence motion, it must state the reasons for the censure.
• It can be moved only in the Lok Sabha.
• If a censure motion is passed, the Council of Ministers is not bound to resign, though it may choose to seek a vote of confidence.
• It is a tool of accountability that allows pointed criticism without necessarily forcing a change of government.

Why it matters for CAPF

The contrast with the no-confidence motion (reasons required, can target one minister, no automatic resignation) is a frequently tested parliamentary distinction.

Common confusion

A censure motion must state grounds and need not bring down the government even if passed; a no-confidence motion needs no grounds and forces resignation if passed.

Parent note

parliament