What is Constitution Of India Article 159?

Constitution Of India Article 159: Oath or Affirmation by the Governor

Every Governor and every person discharging the functions of the Governor shall, before entering upon his office, make and subscribe in the presence of the Chief Justice of the High Court exercising jurisdiction in relation to the State, or, in his absence, the senior-most Judge of that Court available, an oath or affirmation in the following form, that is to say—

I, A. B., do swear in the name of God that I will faithfully execute the office of Governor (or discharge the functions of the Governor) of ……… (name of the State) and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and the law and that I will devote myself to the service and well-being of the people of ……… (name of the State).

Brief Detail

Article 159 mandates that before assuming office, every Governor must take an oath or affirmation. This oath is to be administered in the presence of the Chief Justice of the High Court, or in their absence, the senior-most Judge of that Court. The oath affirms the Governor’s commitment to execute the duties of the office faithfully and to uphold the Constitution and laws of the State.

Question & Answers

Who administers the oath to the Governor?

The oath is administered by the Chief Justice of the High Court or, in their absence, the senior-most Judge of the Court exercising jurisdiction over the State.

What is the content of the oath taken by the Governor?

The Governor swears to faithfully execute the office, preserve and protect the Constitution and laws, and devote themselves to the service of the people of the State.

Example

For example, when a new Governor is appointed, they will take the oath of office in front of the Chief Justice of the High Court. In this oath, they commit to upholding the Constitution and serving the people of the specific State they have been appointed to govern.

Summary

Article 159 outlines the formal process of a Governor taking an oath or affirmation before assuming office. The oath emphasizes a commitment to the Constitution, the law, and public service.