Withdraw tender inviting private CA firms to assist CAG: MP
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Madurai: Madurai MP Su Venkatesan has sought the withdrawal of a tender issued by the comptroller and auditor general (CAG) of India, inviting private chartered accountant (CA) firms to assist the CAG in the audit of public sector companies and local bodies.
In a letter to President of India Droupadi Murmu on June 3, Venkatesan urged her immediate intervention to withdraw the tender. He argued that the decision of the CAG to invite private CA firms to assist in the audit would dilute the independence of the CAG and the principles envisaged by the Constitution.
He stated that private CA firms are expected to work alongside the audit officers carrying out the audit. He emphasised that the CAG is the highest auditing authority in the country, established by the Constitution, and is only accountable to Parliament.
The audit conducted by private CA firms is not the same.
He further mentioned that the CAG was granted independent status to ensure that the audit work is done without any political interference. The distinct and independent nature of the CAG should be protected, as the move to issue the tender is dangerous. He also expressed concern that confidential and sensitive information of private sector companies and local bodies may fall into private hands.
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