Actual Article
Article 69: Oath or Affirmation by the Vice-President
Every Vice-President before entering upon his office shall make and subscribe before the President, or some person appointed in that behalf by him, an oath or affirmation in the following form, that is to say—
“I, [Name], 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, and that I will faithfully discharge the duty upon which I am about to enter.”
UPSC Notes for Article 69
Explanation:
- Oath or Affirmation: The Vice-President is required to take an oath or make an affirmation before assuming office.
- Form and Content: The prescribed form includes a commitment to true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India and to faithfully discharge duties.
- Administering Authority: The oath or affirmation is administered by the President or a person appointed by the President.
Key Points:
- Commitment to Constitution: Emphasizes the Vice-President’s commitment to uphold the Constitution and discharge duties faithfully.
- Formality and Legitimacy: The requirement of an oath or affirmation formalizes the assumption of office, providing legitimacy and accountability.
- Symbolic Significance: Represents the transition into office and the solemn responsibility entrusted to the Vice-President.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 69
Cases:
- Haridas vs. Usha Rani Banik (2003): While not directly related to Article 69, it underscores the significance of oaths in ensuring accountability of public office holders.
- P. V. Narasimha Rao vs. State (1998): This case highlighted the importance of oaths in maintaining the integrity and commitment of public officials.
Commissions:
- National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000): Reviewed the processes surrounding the oaths and affirmations of constitutional officeholders, ensuring clarity and adherence to constitutional principles.
- Administrative Reforms Commission: Examined the ceremonial and procedural aspects of administering oaths to high constitutional officials.
Important Reports Related to Article 69
- Election Commission Reports: Document the procedures for the assumption of office by the Vice-President, including the administration of oaths.
- Parliamentary Committee Reports: Examine the formalities associated with the oath-taking process, ensuring transparency and adherence to constitutional mandates.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 69
- (UPSC Prelims 2013) Who administers the oath of office to the Vice-President of India?
- A. The Prime Minister
- B. The Chief Justice of India
- C. The President
- D. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha Correct Answer: C. The President
- (UPSC Prelims 2017) Before entering upon his office, the Vice-President has to make and subscribe an oath or affirmation before:
- A. The Chief Justice of India
- B. The Prime Minister
- C. The President
- D. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha Correct Answer: C. The President
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 69
- Mains 2015: “Discuss the significance of the oath or affirmation taken by the Vice-President of India before assuming office as per Article 69. How does this formality ensure accountability and commitment to the Constitution?”
- Mains 2019: “Analyze the role of the oath of office in maintaining the integrity and responsibility of the Vice-President. How does Article 69 contribute to the constitutional framework of India?”
Additional Insights:
- Constitutional Obligation: The oath or affirmation is a constitutional obligation that binds the Vice-President to their duties and responsibilities.
- Ceremonial Importance: The act of taking the oath before the President adds to the ceremonial importance, emphasizing the gravity of the office.
- Public Assurance: This public declaration reassures citizens that the Vice-President is committed to upholding the Constitution and serving the nation faithfully.
Understanding Article 69 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it underscores the formal and ceremonial aspects of assuming the office of the Vice-President. This knowledge is vital for both preliminary and main examinations, offering insights into the constitutional requirements and the symbolic significance of oaths and affirmations in maintaining the integrity and accountability of high public offices in India.