Government Appoints K Sanjay Murthy as Next CAG

The government has announced the appointment of K Sanjay Murthy as the next Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. A 1989-batch IAS officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, Murthy will succeed Girish Chandra Murmu. Currently serving as the Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Murthy is set to take over one of India’s most significant constitutional roles, responsible for ensuring financial accountability and transparency in public expenditure.

About the Appointment

• New Role: K Sanjay Murthy will be the next Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India.
• Constitutional Provision: Appointed under Article 148(1) of the Constitution of India.
• Notification Issued By: Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.
• Effective Date: Murthy will assume office upon the completion of Girish Chandra Murmu’s term on November 20, 2024.

About K Sanjay Murthy

• Service Background: 1989 batch IAS officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre.
• Current Role: Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education.
• Professional Experience: Known for his leadership and administrative expertise in education and governance sectors.
• Predecessor: Girish Chandra Murmu
• Term Duration: Murmu served as CAG from August 8, 2020, to November 20, 2024.
• Significant Contributions: Strengthened financial oversight and accountability during his tenure.

Significance of the CAG Role

• Constitutional Authority: CAG audits the accounts of the central and state governments, public sector enterprises, and other government-funded organizations.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensuring transparency in public expenditure.
• Highlighting instances of financial irregularities.
• Contributing to better governance through audit reports.

CAG’s Constitutional Provisions

• Article 148: Establishes the office of the CAG.
• Tenure and Independence: Holds office for a term of six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
• Removal: Can be removed only through a process similar to the impeachment of a Supreme Court judge.

Importance of the Appointment

• Accountability in Public Spending: Murthy’s leadership is expected to ensure continued diligence in monitoring and auditing public funds.
• Impact on Governance: His appointment reflects the government’s emphasis on maintaining the integrity of financial administration in India.