Part V: The Union

Part V of the Constitution of India delineates the structure, powers, and functions of the Union government, which is the central authority responsible for governing the entire country. It lays down the framework for the executive, legislative, and judicial branches at the national level, with a focus on the office of the President as the head of state.

Article 52 - The President of India

Article 52 establishes the office of the President of India as the supreme executive authority in the country. The President serves as the head of the state and represents the unity and integrity of the nation. This article outlines the qualifications, election process, term, powers, and duties of the President.

Article 53 - Executive Power of the Union

Article 53 vests the executive power of the Union in the President, who is authorized to exercise this power either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with the Constitution. The executive power extends to matters with respect to which Parliament has the authority to make laws.

Article 54 - Election of President

Article 54 specifies the procedure for the election of the President. The President is elected by an electoral college consisting of the elected members of both Houses of Parliament, as well as the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States. This article outlines the manner in which votes are allocated and counted in the presidential election.

Article 55 - Manner of Election of President

Article 55 further elaborates on the manner of the election of the President, providing detailed instructions regarding the conduct of the election process, including the casting and counting of votes by the members of the electoral college.

Article 56 - Term of Office of President

Article 56 stipulates the term of office of the President, which is five years from the date on which he enters upon his office. However, the President may be re-elected for any number of terms, provided that the aggregate term does not exceed ten years.

Article 57 - Eligibility for Re-election

Article 57 outlines the eligibility criteria for re-election of the President. It specifies that a person who has held the office of President for two consecutive terms is not eligible for re-election as President.

Article 58 - Qualifications for Election as President

Article 58 sets forth the qualifications required for election as President, including citizenship, age, and other eligibility criteria. This article ensures that only individuals meeting the specified qualifications are eligible to contest the presidential election.

Article 59 - Conditions of President's Office

Article 59 delineates the conditions of the President's office, including the oath or affirmation to be taken by the President before entering upon office. It specifies the duties and responsibilities of the President and emphasizes the President's commitment to upholding the Constitution and serving the nation.

In summary, Part V of the Constitution of India establishes the structure and powers of the Union government, with a primary focus on the office of the President as the head of state. It provides detailed provisions regarding the qualifications, election process, term, and powers of the President, thereby ensuring effective governance and the smooth functioning of the executive branch at the national level.