Question

Which of the following statements about the appointment and tenure of the CAG is/are correct?
i. The CAG is appointed by the President of India and holds office for a term of 6 years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
ii. The CAG can be removed by the President without any parliamentary approval.
iii. The CAG takes an oath before the President to uphold the Constitution and perform duties without fear or favour.
iv. The CAG can resign by submitting a resignation letter to the Prime Minister.

• A. i and iii only
• B. i, ii, and iii
• C. i, iii, and iv
• D. i only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. i and iii only

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India

• Appointment: The CAG is appointed by the President of India.

• Tenure: The CAG holds office for a term of 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. This ensures a fixed and stable tenure, free from political interference.

• Removal: The CAG can only be removed from office in a manner similar to that of a Judge of the Supreme Court. This requires a resolution passed by both Houses of Parliament on grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity. This provision protects the independence of the CAG. Statement ii is incorrect as parliamentary approval is necessary.

• Oath: Before entering office, the CAG has to take an oath or affirmation. This oath is administered by the President of India. The oath emphasizes the duty to uphold the Constitution of India and the laws made by Parliament, and to perform duties without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. This highlights the impartial nature of the office. Statement iii is correct.

• Resignation: The CAG can resign from their office by submitting a resignation letter addressed to the President of India. Statement iv is incorrect as the resignation is to the President, not the Prime Minister.

• Constitutional Status: Article 148 of the Constitution of India provides for the office of the CAG. The CAG is an independent constitutional authority.

• Role: The CAG audits the accounts of the Union and State governments and reports on them. These reports are presented to Parliament and state legislatures, which are then examined by Public Accounts Committees. This ensures accountability in public expenditure.