Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies. Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
2. Accountability is a sine qua non – an essential condition – to good democratic governance. However, the appointment of a CAG has always been treated in utmost secrecy since Independence. Critically Discuss. (250 words)
Reference: The Wire
Why this question:
The question is based on the appointment procedure of CAG which has always been treated in utmost secrecy since Independence which goes against the accountability needed in a democratic setup.
Key demand of the question:
Explain in what way CAG is instrumental in securing accountability of the executive to the Parliament in the sphere of financial administration. And discuss the provisions associated with it in the constitution. Also one must discuss about the flaws in the process of appointment of CAG which is currently happening. Provide solutions using the cases in other countries.
Directive:
Critically discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgement.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Briefly explain the composition of CAG and its origin.
Body:
Highlight the importance of CAG as an institution in ensuring financial accountability in India.
Discuss about the procedure of appointment of CAG in India.
Talk about the conflict of interest that arises in current appointment procedure and the possible implications of the same.
Provide measures to correct the procedure using examples of the other countries.
Conclusion:
Reassert the significance of CAG in the Indian constitutional setup.
