Part V - The Union • Article

Article 60 Simplified: Oath or affirmation by the President

Before starting work, the President must take a solemn oath in front of the Chief Justice of India. They swear to protect and defend the Constitution and the Law, and to devote themselves to the service and well-being of the people of India.

Official Text

Every President and every person acting as President or discharging the functions of the President shall, before entering upon his office, make and subscribe in the presence of the Chief Justice of India or, in his absence, the senior-most Judge of the Supreme 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 solemnly affirm of President (or discharge the functions of the President) of India 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 India.".

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

Article 60 is like the promise that the President makes on their very first day. They promise to protect the Constitution and help the people of India.

Student Mode

Prescribes the solemn oath or affirmation to be taken by the President before entering office, administered by the Chief Justice of India.

Example

Every 5 years, you can see the swearing-in ceremony on TV where the new President repeats the words of Article 60 to officially take charge.

Key Takeaway

The President's primary duty is to be the guardian of the Constitution.

FAQs

Who administers the oath to the President?

The Chief Justice of India, or in their absence, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court.

What does the President swear to protect?

The President swears to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and the law.