Subject: Polity
A candidate for the Presidency must fulfill strict constitutional qualifications: they must be a citizen of India, at least 35 years of age, and eligible for election as a member of the Lok Sabha. In addition, the candidate must not hold any office of profit under the Union, state, or local authorities, ensuring that there is no conflict of interest.
The nomination process further requires support from at least 50 electors as proposers and 50 as seconders, along with a mandatory security deposit (subject to forfeiture if the candidate fails to secure a minimum percentage of votes). These measures are designed to discourage non-serious candidacies.
Prior to assuming office, the President must take a solemn oath or affirmation, administered by the Chief Justice of India (or the senior-most Supreme Court judge in his absence). The oath commits the President to faithfully execute the office, preserve and protect the Constitution, and serve the people of India with dedication.