Shunglu panel suggests changes in CAG, CVC

Amidst a debate on controversies surrounding some of the CAG reports, the High Level Committee which went into the Commonwealth Games related projects, has suggested changes in the functioning and structure of top audit and vigilance bodies like the Comptroller and Auditor General making it a three-member body.

Besides, it found certain flaws in the working of Controller rpt Controller General of Accounts (CGA), Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) and stressed for the appointment of an ombudsman under the Ministry of Urban Development to regulate Delhi Development Authority.

In a confidential letter by the Chairman of the High Level Committee VK Shunglu, a former CAG, to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, several measures were suggested for an effective over-sight mechanism to secure greater accountability and transparency of the government bodies.

The panel has also recommended greater autonomy for the Chief Technical Examination wing of the Central Vigilance Commission.

Holding "monocracy" the cause of inefficiency in its working, the Committee suggested structural changes in CAG through making it a three-member body.

"A three-member body would obtain greater transparency in its operation. One member should possess professional accounting qualifications, Chartered Accountant or its equivalent," it said.

"This should not seem to exclude an Indian Audits and Accounts Service officer from the triumvirate, who has wide exposure to Finance, Audit and Accounts and best international practices in these areas," the letter written by Shunglu said.