Question

Which of the following statements about the CAG’s independence is/are not correct?
i. The CAG’s salary and service conditions can be altered to his/her disadvantage after appointment.
ii. The CAG is eligible for further office under the Government of India after ceasing to hold office.
iii. The administrative expenses of the CAG’s office are subject to the vote of Parliament.

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

Answer 1

Answer:

C. i, ii, and iii

Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) - Independence

• Article 148 of the Indian Constitution provides for the appointment of the CAG.
• The CAG is an independent constitutional authority.
• Security of Tenure:
  • The CAG holds office for a term of 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
  • The CAG can be removed from office only in like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court.
  • Key Point for Exams: The salary and service conditions of the CAG cannot be altered to his/her disadvantage after his/her appointment. This ensures financial independence and protection from arbitrary executive action.
• Post-Retirement Conditions:
  • The CAG is not eligible for further office under the Government of India or any State Government after ceasing to hold office. This prevents potential conflicts of interest and ensures impartial auditing.
  • Key Point for Exams: This restriction is crucial for maintaining the CAG's integrity and preventing any undue influence or post-retirement benefits from compromising their audit function.
• Administrative Expenses:
  • The administrative expenses of the CAG's office, including salaries, salaries of persons serving in connection with the affairs of the office of the CAG and pensions payable to or in respect of such persons, are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India.
  • Key Point for Exams: These expenses are not subject to the vote of Parliament. This 'non-votable' status ensures that the CAG's office is not dependent on the annual budgetary approval by the legislature, thereby safeguarding its independence.
• The independence of the CAG is vital for ensuring accountability of the executive to the Parliament regarding public expenditure.