CAG Report Highlights Major Irregularities in AAP Government, Claims PAC Chairman

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CAG report reveals significant irregularities
- Investigation led by Ajay Mahawar
- Potential repercussions for Kejriwal and ministers
- PAC dedicated to transparency and accountability
- Report submission deadline set for three months
New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report, presented in the Delhi Assembly recently, reveals significant irregularities in the operations of the Arvind Kejriwal government and indicates corruption across multiple departments, particularly in the Excise policy, as stated by Ajay Mahawar, president of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
Mahawar, who serves as the BJP MLA for Ghonda constituency, expressed his strong disapproval of the corruption associated with the former government’s liquor policy, questioning, “If there was no wrongdoing, why did Arvind Kejriwal and his ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendra Jain end up in jail?”
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, PAC chief Ajay Mahawar elaborated on the committee's plan to conduct a thorough three-month investigation into the discrepancies and corruption allegations highlighted by the government auditor.
“The PAC committee will execute its duties diligently. Legal matters will be reviewed from a legal standpoint, and each member is entitled to voice their opinions. The opposition is welcome to share their views, and anyone desiring to record a dissent note may do so. The committee, nevertheless, is dedicated to operating with complete integrity, thoroughness, and a strong emphasis on factual accuracy,” he asserted.
He also noted that the PAC plans to present its findings within the designated three-month period but may request an extension if necessary.
Moreover, he stated that the PAC will work painstakingly, considering all stakeholders, gathering their insights, and delivering its report to the Assembly afterward.
When asked about the potential for Kejriwal to face imprisonment again, he clearly stated that the law is paramount, adding, “If anyone (Arvind Kejriwal) is found guilty of corruption, incarceration is unavoidable.”
“He is currently on bail and has not been acquitted of charges. Thus, any sentence imposed by the court must be adhered to,” he added.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is one of the three financial committees recently formed by Speaker Vijender Gupta, tasked with examining the CAG report and investigating the implicated officials. Following a thorough assessment of the alleged irregularities, the PAC will submit its findings to the House. The nine-member committee comprises six BJP and three AAP MLAs.
All CAG reports concerning liquor, transport, environment, and pollution have been referred to the PAC. The PAC will scrutinize the CAG report, interrogate relevant officials, and document instances of irregularities.
Significantly, the PAC is one of the most powerful government committees, playing a crucial role in auditing government financial activities and promoting transparency and accountability in public expenditure.