The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is one of the most important parliamentary committees in India. It is responsible for examining the expenditure of the government and ensuring that public money is used properly as per the Parliament’s approval.
Appointment of the Chairman of PAC
- The Speaker of the Lok Sabha appoints the Chairman of the PAC from among its members.
- Although there is no constitutional requirement, it has been a convention since 1967 that the chairperson is from the opposition party to ensure unbiased scrutiny.
Composition of the PAC
- It consists of 22 members:
- 15 from the Lok Sabha, elected by proportional representation.
- 7 from the Rajya Sabha, nominated by the Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
- Ministers cannot be members of the PAC.
Functions of the PAC
- Examines the Annual Audit Reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
- Ensures that government expenditures are as per parliamentary sanctions.
- Investigates cases of financial irregularities in government spending.
Thus, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha appoints the Chairman, making option (B) the correct answer.
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