Supreme Court Examines PIL Challenging Opaque CAG Appointment Process; Seeks Centre’s Response
The Supreme Court of India has directed the Central government to respond to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) questioning the lack of transparency and statutory guidelines in the appointment process of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) , India’s apex constitutional auditor. The petition, which underscores concerns over the independence of this critical office, could catalyze reforms in how the nation’s “guardian of the public purse” is selected. The CAG’s Role and Current Appointment Mechanism - Constitutional Mandate : The CAG, enshrined under Article 148 of the Constitution, audits all central and state government expenditures, including public sector undertakings. Its reports are tabled in Parliament and state legislatures, serving as a cornerstone for financial accountability and legislative oversight. - Appointment Process : The President appoints the CAG on the central government’s recommendation . However, unlike other constitutional offices (e.g., the Chief Electio…
