Congress Leader Venugopal Reappointed As Chairman Of Parliament's Public Accounts Committee

In a move that reinforces the Opposition’s role in financial scrutiny, senior Congress leader K. C. Venugopal has been reappointed as Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for the 2026-27 term. The decision, announced by Om Birla, continues the parliamentary convention of an Opposition-led watchdog panel .

The Public Accounts Committee is one of Parliament’s most powerful financial bodies, playing a critical role in examining how public money is spent . It scrutinises reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and checks whether funds approved by Parliament have been used properly. The panel identifies irregularities, wasteful expenditure, and gaps in implementation , ensuring that government departments remain accountable.

The importance of the PAC lies in ensuring accountability and transparency. It acts as a bridge between Parliament and the executive, making sure the government answers for its spending. Its recommendations often lead to corrective action and improved financial discipline , strengthening governance over time.

Alongside this, BJP leader Baijayant Panda has been appointed Chairman of the Committee on Public Undertakings, which reviews the functioning of state-run enterprises . Sanjay Jaiswal will head the Estimates Committee, tasked with assessing budget allocations and efficiency in spending .

Another key appointment includes Faggan Singh Kulaste as Chairman of the Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, which monitors implementation of welfare measures for marginalised communities.

With these appointments effective from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027 , Parliament’s committee system will continue to play a vital role in oversight and financial accountability, with the PAC remaining central to maintaining checks and balances in the democratic framework.