List of Idioms and Phrases from The HINDU editorial: “Public accounts: On the newly constituted Public Accounts Committee”

List of Idioms and Phrases from The HINDU editorial: “Public accounts: On the newly constituted Public Accounts Committee”

The newly formed Public Accounts Committee has raised hopes for greater transparency in government spending. The committee aims to prevent the evasion of accountability by scrutinizing public finances. It has made a proactive beginning, launching inquiries into past expenditures without waiting for formal complaints. The committee also took suo motu action on issues related to unreported financial irregularities, emphasizing its commitment to oversight.

However, the process has not been without political undertones, with critics accusing the committee of favoring certain parties. Accusations of crony capitalism have also surfaced, as some believe the committee's work may benefit businesses closely aligned with political figures. Despite this, the committee’s assertive posturing shows its intent to enforce stricter controls. There is concern that its efforts may be undermined by political infighting, but its role as the enforcer of accountability is seen as crucial for maintaining fiscal discipline.

1)  Evasion of accountability

• Meaning: The act of avoiding responsibility or escaping oversight.

• Example: "The company's management was accused of the evasion of accountability when they failed to address the financial discrepancies."

2)  Proactive beginning

• Meaning: An active or forward-looking start, taking initiative rather than waiting for issues to arise.

• Example: "The new manager made a proactive beginning by addressing key issues within the first week."

3)  Suo motu

• Meaning: Latin term meaning "on its own motion," referring to an action taken by a government authority or court without a formal request from another party.

• Example: "The court took suo motu cognizance of the environmental violations reported in the media."

 4) Political undertones

• Meaning: A subtle or indirect political message or implication in actions or decisions.

• Example: "The debate had clear political undertones, as the speakers were from opposing parties."

 5) Crony capitalism

• Meaning: An economic system in which businesses thrive not through competition but by close relationships with government officials.

• Example: "Critics argue that crony capitalism has led to widespread corruption in the allocation of government contracts."

 6) Assertive posturing

• Meaning: An assertive or confident stance or position taken by someone, often to show strength or dominance.

• Example: "The country's assertive posturing on the international stage has increased its influence in global politics."

7)  Undermined by

• Meaning: To weaken or diminish the effectiveness of something.

• Example: "The company’s efforts to improve customer service were undermined by frequent technical issues."

 8) Enforcer of accountability

• Meaning: A body or person responsible for ensuring that actions are taken responsibly and in alignment with laws or regulations.

• Example: "The Public Accounts Committee acts as an enforcer of accountability within the government."