The petitioner had argued that elected representatives are required to take the oath either in the name of God or in the name of the Constitution, and that invoking specific deities was contrary to the prescribed oath and constitutional principles.

The Kerala High Court invalidated oaths taken by local body members who invoked names beyond God or a solemn affirmation. It said the statutory wording must be followed exactly, while allowing fresh oaths within four weeks.

Kerala High Court invalidates oaths of BJP councillors for invoking names other than 'God,' upholding strict legal requirements.

Kerala High Court on June 24, ruled that elected local body representatives must take their oath strictly in the manner prescribed by law.

Kerala High Court invalidates oaths of BJP councillors for invoking names other than 'God,' upholding strict legal requirements.

Kerala High Court invalidates oaths of 20 BJP councillors and a Congress member, ordering fresh swearing-in within four weeks.