Home The Constitution Part VI Article 219

Art. 219 Part VI: The States

Oath or Affirmation by Judges of High Courts

Exact text — Constitution of India

Every person appointed to be a Judge of a High Court shall, before he enters upon his office, make and subscribe before the Governor of the State, or some person appointed in that behalf by him, an oath or affirmation... that he will faithfully perform the duties of his office... and that he will uphold the Constitution and the laws.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article requires every High Court judge to take a specific oath — administered by the state's Governor (or their appointee) — before assuming office, committing to faithfully perform judicial duties and uphold the Constitution and laws.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is why a newly appointed High Court judge's swearing-in ceremony involves the state Governor, a formal, symbolically significant moment marking the judge's assumption of this important constitutional role.

Read alongside this one

Art. 159 — Oath or Affirmation by the Governor

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 219

Why does the Governor administer this oath rather than the Chief Justice, unlike the President's oath?

This reflects the Governor's formal role as the state's constitutional head, parallel to how the President administers oaths at the Union level for certain offices, while the Chief Justice of India specifically administers the President's own oath under a different, specific arrangement.

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The text above reproduces Article 219 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.