Home The Constitution Part VI Article 188

Art. 188 Part VI: The States

Oath or Affirmation by Members

Exact text — Constitution of India

Every member of the Legislature of a State shall, before taking his seat, make and subscribe before the Governor, 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 Legislative Assembly (or Legislative Council), 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

The state-level mirror of Article 99 — every MLA/MLC must take this oath (administered by the Governor or their designate) before taking their seat, with the same core commitment to constitutional allegiance and India's sovereignty and integrity.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is why newly elected MLAs formally take an oath before a new State Assembly's first session begins — the same mandatory constitutional prerequisite that applies to MPs at the national level.

Read alongside this one

Art. 99 — Oath or Affirmation by Members

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 188

Is the oath text identical to the one MPs take?

Nearly identical in substance, with the specific reference adjusted to the relevant state's Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council rather than Parliament's Houses.

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The text above reproduces Article 188 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.