The Lok Sabha’s Committee on Public Accounts: Scrutinizing Public Finances

The Committee on Public Accounts (PAC) is a crucial parliamentary committee in the Lok Sabha, tasked with examining the audit reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG). Its primary function is to ensure financial accountability of the executive branch (the government) to the Parliament and ultimately, to the people of India.

Composition and Tenure

The PAC comprises 22 members: 15 are elected by the Lok Sabha members and 7 are nominated by the Rajya Sabha. Members are chosen proportionally, reflecting the strength of different parties in Parliament. The chairperson of the Committee is traditionally appointed from the opposition party, reinforcing the Committee’s role as a check on the government. The term of office for members is typically one year, ensuring fresh perspectives and continued scrutiny.

Role and Functions

The PAC’s core function is to scrutinize the appropriation accounts (accounts showing how funds were allocated) and finance accounts (accounts showing overall financial transactions) of the Union Government. It examines the CAG’s reports, which highlight instances of:

• Irregularities and Fraud: Identifying instances of corruption, misuse of funds, and unauthorized expenditure.
• Inefficiency and Waste: Pointing out cases of poor planning, ineffective implementation, and avoidable delays leading to financial losses.
• Lack of Economy: Highlighting extravagant or wasteful spending practices.
• Deviation from Rules and Regulations: Identifying breaches of established financial procedures and guidelines.

The Committee investigates these findings and seeks explanations from government departments. It can summon officials, review documents, and conduct site visits to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues. While the PAC does not have the power to directly enforce its recommendations, its reports carry significant weight. The government is expected to take the Committee’s observations seriously and implement corrective measures.

Significance and Limitations

The PAC plays a vital role in promoting transparency and accountability in government spending. By scrutinizing public finances, it helps to prevent corruption, ensure efficient resource allocation, and improve the overall financial management of the country. Its reports serve as a valuable source of information for Parliament, the media, and the public.

However, the PAC also faces certain limitations. Its recommendations are advisory and not binding. The Committee operates ex post facto, meaning it examines expenditure that has already occurred, limiting its ability to prevent financial irregularities in real-time. Furthermore, the vast scope of government spending and the limited time available to the Committee can make it challenging to thoroughly investigate every issue.

Conclusion

Despite its limitations, the Committee on Public Accounts remains a critical instrument for parliamentary oversight of public finances. Its diligent scrutiny and well-researched reports contribute significantly to good governance and the responsible management of public resources, ensuring that taxpayers’ money is used effectively and efficiently.