Renewed Parliamentary Oversight: The Public Accounts Committee's Proactive Role

The Central government has historically avoided rigorous parliamentary scrutiny due to its strong majority. However, with the BJP now leading a coalition and facing a more robust Opposition, there is an opportunity for increased parliamentary oversight.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), now led by Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, has taken a proactive approach by selecting 161 subjects for review, many based on CAG reports. These include reforms in banking and insurance, welfare scheme implementation, energy sector transitions, and public utility regulations.

The PAC aims to go beyond mere expenditure reviews to address broader public interest issues, though its political implications are noted. Despite the PAC's assertiveness, challenges remain due to the ruling coalition's majority, which may affect the committee's effectiveness in holding the executive accountable.

The role of PAC and other parliamentary committees is crucial for ensuring executive accountability and enforcing parliamentary authority.