Minister V Sivankutty criticises members for deviating from prescribed oath

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty on Tuesday criticised some newly elected members of local self -government institutions for taking their oath of office in a manner that deviated from the legally prescribed format.

Speaking to reporters, Sivankutty described the incident as a matter of grave concern, stating that such practices violate constitutional procedures and statutory rules. "It cannot be accepted under any circumstance,' he said.

Under panchayath and municipal laws, elected members are required to take the oath either in the name of God or as a solemn affirmation. However, reports have emerged from certain areas that some members altered the prescribed format while taking their oath.

The minister cited Supreme Court judgments clarifying that oaths taken in any form other than the prescribed format, or with modifications, have no legal validity. Members who take such oaths cannot legally assume office. Until a valid oath is administered, they are barred from attending council meetings, participating in discussions, or casting votes, and any such participation would be considered illegal and unauthorised.

Stressing the importance of protecting the dignity of constitutional institutions and upholding the rule of law, Sivankutty called on officials to take strict action. He urged elected representatives to retake the oath strictly in accordance with legal provisions, warning that failure to comply would render their posts vacant.

The minister also cautioned against using democratic processes for political exploitation, noting that such tendencies undermine the sanctity of democracy.

While Sivankutty did not mention any specific incident, his office later clarified that his remarks were prompted by reports of some newly elected members of local bodies, including Corporations, taking the oath in violation of the prescribed format.