Art. 79 Part V: The Union

Constitution of Parliament

Exact text — Constitution of India

There shall be a Parliament for the Union which shall consist of the President and two Houses to be known respectively as the Council of States and the House of the People.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article establishes India's national legislature as consisting of three components together — the President and TWO Houses (Rajya Sabha/Council of States, and Lok Sabha/House of the People). Notably, the President is formally PART of Parliament under this definition, since Parliamentary assent to bills requires the President's signature.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is why a bill only becomes law after receiving the President's assent — the President isn't just an outside approver but formally constitutes part of 'Parliament' itself under this Article's definition.

Read alongside this one

Art. 80 — Composition of the Council of States Art. 81 — Composition of the House of the People

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 79

Is India's Parliament unicameral or bicameral?

Bicameral — it has two Houses (Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha), plus the President as a formal third component of the overall institution, though 'Parliament' in everyday usage often refers just to the two Houses.

← BackPart V Overview Next →Article 80: Composition of the Council of States

The text above reproduces Article 79 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.