Consider the following statements with regard to the appointment and tenure of the CAG:
i. The CAG is appointed by the President of India and takes an oath before them.
ii. The CAG’s term is 6 years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
iii. The CAG can be removed only by the President on the grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity, following a special majority in both Houses of Parliament.
iv. The CAG is eligible for further office under the Government of India after completing their term.
v. The CAG’s salary is determined by the President after consultation with the CAG.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Assertion (A): The CAG’s administrative expenses are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India and are not subject to parliamentary vote.
Reason (R): This provision ensures the CAG’s financial autonomy, preventing parliamentary control over its budget.
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Assertion (A): The CAG submits audit reports on state accounts directly to the state legislature.
Reason (R): The Constitution mandates that the CAG’s state audit reports are presented by the Governor to ensure legislative oversight.
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Assertion (A): The CAG cannot audit secret service expenditure and must accept a certificate from the competent authority as proof of legal expenditure.
Reason (R): Secret service expenditure is exempt from CAG audit to protect national security and confidentiality.
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Assertion (A): The CAG’s salary and service conditions cannot be altered to their disadvantage after appointment.
Reason (R): This provision ensures the independence of the CAG by safeguarding against executive interference.
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Assertion (A): The CAG of India is considered one of the bulwarks of the democratic system, alongside the Supreme Court, Election Commission, and Union Public Service Commission.
Reason (R): The CAG upholds the Constitution of India and laws of Parliament by ensuring financial accountability at both the Centre and state levels.
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