Part V - Parliament • Article

Article 99 Simplified: Oath or affirmation by members

Before an MP can sit in Parliament or vote, they MUST take an oath of loyalty to the Constitution of India. If they don't take this oath, they cannot function as an MP and can be fined for every day they sit in the House illegally.

Official Text

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 according to the form set out for the purpose in the Third Schedule.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

Before any MP can sit in Parliament or press the 'Yes/No' button to vote on laws, they must first stand up and take a solemn oath. They promise to be faithful to India and uphold the Constitution. If they sit or vote WITHOUT taking this oath, they face a daily fine of ₹500 (under Article 104)!

Student Mode

Article 99 mandates that every member of either House of Parliament must make and subscribe an oath or affirmation before taking their seat. Key points: (1) The form is prescribed in the Third Schedule. (2) It is taken before the President or a person appointed by them. (3) An MP who sits or votes without taking the oath is liable to a fine of ₹500 per day under Article 104. (4) The oath requires allegiance to the Constitution and faithful discharge of duties. (5) The oath can be taken in any language listed in the Eighth Schedule or in English.

Example

After a General Election, the first few days of Parliament are dedicated solely to all 543 MPs taking their oaths one by one.

Key Takeaway

Loyalty to the Constitution is the first requirement for every MP.

FAQs

What is the penalty for sitting or voting in Parliament without taking the oath?

Under Article 104, a fine of ₹500 for each day the person sits or votes without having taken the oath.

In which language can an MP take their oath?

In any of the 22 languages listed in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution, or in English.

What happens after the General Election before Parliament starts working?

The first few days of the new Lok Sabha are spent exclusively in oath-taking ceremonies for all 543 (or so) elected members, before any legislative business can begin.