Who appoints Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) of India?
Q. Which is/are true regarding CAG?
1) CAG can be removed like a High Court Judge and on the same grounds.
2) CAG holds office for 5 years.- Published on 15 Mar 17a. Only 1
b. Only 2
c. Both 1 and 2
d. Neither 1 nor 2
ANSWER: Only 1
Comptroller and Auditor General of India -
- Article 148 - There shall be a Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) of India who shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal and shall only be removed from office in like manner and on the like grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court.
- CAG heads the Indian Audit and Accounts Department. This department was created in 1753, during British Rule.
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar said that the CAG shall be the most important officer under the Constitution of India because -
1. CAG is considered guardian of the public purse.
2. He controls financial system at the Centre and State level.
- He is one of the pillars of the democratic system of Government in India.
- The others pillars are - the Supreme Court, the Election Commission and the Union Public Service Commission.
Appointment and Term -
- The CAG is appointed by the President.
- He shall only be removed from office in like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court.
- CAG holds office for a period of 6 years or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
- CAG can resign any time from his office by addressing the resignation letter to the President.
- Thus, like a judge of Supreme Court, the grounds for removal are - proved misbehavior or incapacity.
