CNBC TV18
By Priyanka Deshpande
Published Feb 12, 2024
The newly formed NDA government in Bihar on February 12 won the trust vote in the state assembly, amid a walkout by members of the Mahagathbandhan'. Here’s a look at what a floor test is and its voting process
Image: PTI
What is a floor test?
It is a constitutional mechanism used to determine if the incumbent government enjoys the support of the legislature.
Votes needed to win floor test
The chief minister moves a vote of confidence to prove majority support. The government needs the magic number of half way mark plus one to win the test.
Votes needed to win floor test
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar sought confidence in the new government he formed with the BJP by moving a motion in the 243-strong assembly, where the NDA needed a majority mark of 122.
Image: PTI
Voting
The voting can happen via voice vote (legislators respond orally), division vote (Voting done with electronic gadgets, ballot box or slips), or ballot vote (Vote cast in a ballot in secret voting).
Voting
Deputy Speaker Maheshwar Hazari ordered a headcount after having declared the motion as passed through voice vote.
Image: PTI
MLAs absent or abstain from voting
Majority is counted on the basis of those present and voting. This brings down the majority-mark.
Image: PTI
MLAs absent or abstain from voting
There were 128 members of the NDA and 114 members from the Mahagathbandhan present during the floor test.
Image: PTI
Result
If majority is proved, the CM continues, else resigns. In case of a tie, the Speaker casts the deciding vote.
Image: PTI
Result
A total of 129 members voted in favour of the motion of confidence, proving majority.
Image: PTI
Kumar had recently dumped the Mahagathbandhan, of which the RJD was a key constituent, and returned to the NDA fold to form the government with support of the BJP.