Cut Motions

Definition

Motions moved in the Lok Sabha to reduce the amount of a demand for grants during the discussion on the Budget, used to express disapproval of government policy.

Key points

• They are moved only in the Lok Sabha, during the voting on demands for grants.
• There are three kinds:
  • Policy Cut: reduces the demand to one rupee, expressing disapproval of the policy underlying the demand.
  • Economy Cut: reduces the demand by a specified amount to enforce economy in expenditure.
  • Token Cut: reduces the demand by a token of 100 rupees to air a specific grievance.
• If a cut motion is passed, it amounts to a vote of no confidence and the government should resign.
• They give Parliament control over the executive's spending proposals.

Why it matters for CAPF

The three types of cut motions and the rupee amounts (one rupee, 100 rupees) are precise, frequently tested budget-procedure facts.

Common confusion

Policy Cut (to one rupee), Economy Cut (specified reduction), Token Cut (100 rupees); passage of any cut motion implies loss of confidence in the government.

Parent note

parliament