Cut motion

Why is it so important?

Cut motion is a veto power given to the member of the Lok Sabha to oppose a demand in the financial bill discussed by the government. This can turn into an effective tool to test the strength of the government. If a cut motion is adopted by the House and the government does not have the numbers, it is obliged to resign.

Cut motion can be of following types:-

 (i) Disapproval of policy cut: Amount of the demand be reduced to Re 1. A member giving notice of such a motion shall indicate in precise terms the particulars of the policy which he proposes to discuss. The discussion shall be confined to the specific point or points mentioned in the notice and it shall be open to members to advocate an alternative policy

(ii) Economic cut: Calling for cuts in a taxation proposal.The notice shall indicate briefly and precisely the particular matter on which discussion is sought to be raised and speeches shall be confined to the discussion as to how economy can be effected.

(iii) Token cut: A small cut of, say, Rs 100, meant to be a rebuke for the government

However, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha enjoys the prerogative. Rule 211 authorises the Speaker to decide whether to admit a cut motion and Rule 210 empowers him to give 13 grounds for non-admissibility of a cut motion. The Speaker can reject a cut motion if it relates to more than one demand, it contains defamatory statements and it is a matter that does not concern the government.

Admissibility of cut motions

In order that notice of motion for reduction of the amount of demand may be admissible, it shall satisfy the following conditions, namely:-

(I) It shall relate to one demand only;

(ii) It shall be clearly expressed and shall not contain arguments, inferences, ironical expressions, imputations, epithets or defamatory statements;

(iii) It shall be confined to one specific matter which shall be stated in precise terms;

(iv) It shall not make suggestions for the amendment or repeal of existing laws;

(vi) It shall not refer to a matter which is not primarily the concern of the Government of India;

(vii) It shall not relate to expenditure charged on the Consolidated Fund of India;

(ix) It shall not raise a question of privilege;

(x) it shall not revive discussion on a matter which has been discussed in the same session and on which a decision has been taken;

Statute vs Convention:

Parliament convention: Cut motion never moved when demand for grants have been "guillotined"

What is Guillotine:

Demands for grants of ministries bunched together for assent of Lok Sabha

CPI leader Gurudas Dasgupta wants the Speaker to admit a cut motion despite a "guillotine". Dasgupta has cited Article 113 (2) of the Constitution which entitles the House to move a cut motion.

Source: Parliament of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Cut-motion-against-government-defeated-SP-RJD-MPs-stay-away/articleshow/5864550.cms