Part XXI - Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions • Article

Article 377 Simplified: Provisions as to Comptroller and Auditor-General of India

Article 377 transitioned the pre-independence Auditor-General of India into the newly formed constitutional post of Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG). It ensured that their salary, pension, and duties were protected under the new Constitution, guaranteeing financial auditing continuity.

Official Text

The Auditor-General of India holding office immediately before the commencement of this Constitution shall, unless he has elected otherwise, become on such commencement the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India and shall thereupon be entitled to such salaries and to such rights in respect of leave of absence and pension as are provided for under clause (3) of article 148 in respect of the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

The country needed someone to check the government's bank accounts and make sure public money was not wasted. This rule turned the old Auditor-General into the new, independent Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.

Student Mode

Article 377 transitioned the pre-independence Auditor-General of India, who held office under the Government of India Act 1935, into the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG) established under Article 148, protecting their tenure, salary, and rights. This ensured uninterrupted audit and accounting of public revenues.

Example

Mr. V. Narahari Rao, who was the colonial Auditor-General, automatically became the first Comptroller and Auditor-General of independent India on January 26, 1950, under Article 377, without needing a new appointment process.

Key Takeaway

Ensured financial oversight continuity by transitioning the pre-independence Auditor-General into the constitutional office of the CAG.

FAQs

Who was the first CAG of India under Article 377?

Mr. V. Narahari Rao, who had been appointed as the Auditor-General in 1948, transitioned to become the first CAG of India on January 26, 1950, serving until 1954.

Why is the independence of the CAG protected?

To ensure impartial auditing of government expenditure, the CAG must be free from cabinet influence. Article 377 protected this independence during the critical transition to a Republic.

Quiz

Which constitutional post succeeded the pre-independence Auditor-General under Article 377?

Answer: The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG)

Who was the first Comptroller and Auditor-General of independent India?

Answer: V. Narahari Rao