Context of the Recent Disruption
Motion of Thanks in Parliament: Protests in the Lok Sabha recently disrupted proceedings and prevented the Prime Minister’s reply to the Motion of Thanks. Such disruptions highlight the tension between parliamentary decorum and political dissent. The reply by the Prime Minister is considered a crucial part of the debate, as it reflects the government’s official response to issues raised by members.
The inability to conclude this discussion impacts legislative scrutiny. It also delays the formal closure of debate on the President’s Address, which sets the tone for governance priorities.
Constitutional Basis of the Motion
The Motion of Thanks is rooted in Article 87(1) of the Constitution of India. This Article mandates that the President addresses both Houses of Parliament at the beginning of the first session after a general election and at the start of the first session each year. The address outlines the causes for summoning Parliament and presents the government’s broad policy agenda.
Static GK fact: Article 87 ensures a formal communication channel between the executive and the legislature at the start of parliamentary business.
Procedure in Lok Sabha
The discussion on the President’s Address takes place through a Motion of Thanks. This procedure is governed by Rule 17 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha. A member of the House moves the motion, and another member seconds it, after which a detailed discussion begins.
The debate allows members to examine the government’s performance and future plans. It is one of the earliest opportunities in a session for parliamentarians to raise national and regional concerns.
Static GK Tip: Rules of Procedure are framed under Article 118 of the Constitution, empowering each House to regulate its own functioning.
Role of Amendments
Amendments to the Motion of Thanks are permitted and play a significant political role. Opposition members may move amendments expressing regret that the President’s Address has omitted or inadequately addressed certain issues. These amendments act as instruments of criticism rather than legislative change.
If an amendment is adopted, it amounts to a political censure of the government. However, such amendments are rarely passed due to the government’s majority in the House.
Significance in Parliamentary Democracy
The Motion of Thanks debate is more than a procedural formality. It reflects the principle of collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers to Parliament. The Prime Minister’s reply traditionally concludes the discussion and addresses criticisms raised during the debate.
Disruptions that prevent this reply weaken parliamentary dialogue. They also reduce opportunities for consensus-building and accountability within the democratic framework.
Static GK fact: Failure to pass the Motion of Thanks is treated as a lack of confidence in the government, similar in effect to a no-confidence motion.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Motion of Thanks in Parliament:
| Topic | Detail |
| Constitutional provision | Article 87(1) of the Constitution of India |
| Nature of motion | Formal motion thanking the President for the Address |
| Governing rule | Rule 17 of Lok Sabha Rules of Procedure |
| Who moves the motion | Any member of Lok Sabha, seconded by another |
| Role of amendments | Express regret or highlight omissions in the Address |
| Political significance | Tests government accountability and majority |
| Usual conclusion | Reply by the Prime Minister |
| Democratic value | Ensures executive-legislative interaction |
