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Home The Constitution Part V Article 99
Art. 99 Part V: The Union

Oath or Affirmation by Members

Exact text — Constitution of India

Every member of either House of Parliament shall, before taking his seat, make and subscribe before the President, or some person appointed in that behalf by him, an oath or affirmation... 'I, A.B., having been elected (or nominated) a member of the Council of States (or the House of the People) do swear in the name of God/solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established, that I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India and that I will faithfully discharge the duty upon which I am about to enter.'

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article requires every MP — before actually taking their seat — to swear or affirm allegiance to the Constitution and India's sovereignty and integrity, and to faithfully discharge their duties. Until this oath is administered, a newly elected member cannot participate in the House's proceedings.
Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is why you'll see newly elected MPs formally take an oath at the start of a new Lok Sabha's first session — a mandatory constitutional prerequisite before they can actually function as sitting members, not just a ceremonial formality.

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Art. 51a(a) — Respect the Constitution, National Flag and National Anthem
Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 99

Can an elected MP refuse to take this oath and still participate in Parliament?
No — taking the oath (or affirmation) is a mandatory precondition; without it, a member cannot take their seat or participate in proceedings.
← PreviousArticle 98: Secretariat of ParliamentNext →Article 100: Voting in Houses, Power of Houses to Act Notwithstanding Vacancies and Quorum

The text above reproduces Article 99 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.