PIL seeks CAG audit of Noida authorities

“The audit of these three authorities should be carried out by the CAG. Our contention is that the CAG has been writing to these bodies since 2009, but they have not allowed this to happen. Their by-laws provide that they will be audited by the local funds audit unit, unless they decide to get things audited by the CAG. Our argument is that several cases of malpractices and alleged bungling have been coming to light. These bodies are dealing with land, which is a national resource, and, therefore, the public has a right to know how they are using it,” said Khanna.

“All five respondents — the three bodies, the state government and the CAG — have been issued notices to file counter-affidavits,” he added. The court has fixed September 22 as the next date of hearing in the matter.

Chief standing counsel Ramesh Upadhyay, who represented the state, confirmed that the court has granted three weeks for counter-affidavits from all respondents.

“Our submission was that a cause for allowing a CAG audit would arise only when it is made clear there was something lacking in the audit by the local funds unit. Also, the rules provide that the governor can call for a CAG audit. Such a request has never been made on his part,” he said.