Attorney General and CAG: Constitutional Offices and Their Role

TOPIC CLASSIFICATION

Subject: Indian Polity & Governance Sub-area: Constitutional Bodies & Offices Difficulty: Easy-Medium Weightage: Moderate (1-2 Prelims + occasional Mains reference)

EXAMINER REASONING

1. Trap: Believing the Attorney General is a member of the Cabinet (he is not, though he has all Cabinet privileges in Parliament).
2. Most confused: Attorney General vs Solicitor General vs Additional Solicitor General - hierarchy and appointment differences.
3. Key anchor: Article 76 (AGI) and Article 148 (CAG) - both are constitutional offices with distinct appointment/removal provisions.
4. Current affairs hook: CAG reports on Delhi excise policy 2025-26; AGI's role in contempt cases and government litigation.
5. Mains hinge: "The independence of the CAG is crucial for financial accountability. Evaluate the safeguards available and suggest reforms."

Core Concept

Attorney General of India (AGI)

• Article 76: President appoints the AGI - person must be qualified to be a Judge of the Supreme Court (Article 124(3)).
• Term: Not fixed by Constitution - holds office during the pleasure of the President.
• Removal: By President - no impeachment process needed.
• Duties: Advises GoI on legal matters, performs functions of legal character referred by President, discharges functions under Constitution/any other law.