Central Idea

During the monsoon Session of Parliament, Opposition parties demanded discussions on alleged sexual assaults in Manipur and ongoing ethnic violence.
Many MPs moved adjournment motions, leading to the Lok Sabha’s adjournment.

Let’s explore the various motions raised in Indian Parliament and their significance.

(A) Short Duration Discussion (Rule 193)

Applicability: This procedure is available in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Description: A short-duration discussion can take place when the Chairman or Speaker believes that a matter is urgent and of sufficient public importance. The discussion can last for a maximum of two and a half hours.

Applicability: This motion is relevant in Lok Sabha.
Description: If a motion meets certain conditions, such as not containing defamatory statements, being on a matter of recent occurrence, and not being pending before any statutory authority or court of enquiry, it can be admitted. The Speaker can then allocate a time period for the discussion. This type of motion involves a vote to determine Parliament’s position on the issue and requires the government to follow Parliament’s decision.

Applicability: The adjournment motion is relevant only in Lok Sabha and is not available in Rajya Sabha.
Description: An adjournment motion is moved to discuss a “definite matter of urgent public importance” with the Speaker’s consent. The notice for this motion must be given before 10 AM on a given day to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General. The motion must meet specific criteria to be admitted. The passage of an adjournment motion does not require the government to resign but is seen as a strong censure of the government.