The correct answer is option 'D', the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Let's understand why.

Role of the Public Accounts Committee:

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is a parliamentary committee in India that is responsible for examining the audit reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. The committee is tasked with scrutinizing the financial transactions of the government and ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.

Appointment of the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee:

The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee is appointed from among the members of the committee. The appointment is made by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. The Speaker holds a crucial role in the functioning of the Parliament and has the power to appoint the Chairman of various parliamentary committees, including the Public Accounts Committee.

Responsibilities of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha:

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is the presiding officer of the lower house of the Parliament of India. The Speaker is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha and holds a position of great authority and impartiality. Some of the key responsibilities of the Speaker include:

1. Presiding over the sessions of the Lok Sabha and maintaining order and decorum.
2. Deciding points of order and interpreting the rules of procedure.
3. Granting permission to members to speak in the house.
4. Ensuring the smooth functioning of the Lok Sabha and conducting its business effectively.
5. Appointing the Chairman and members of various parliamentary committees, including the Public Accounts Committee.

Significance of the Speaker's appointment:

The appointment of the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee by the Speaker ensures the independence and impartiality of the committee. Since the Speaker is an elected representative who is expected to uphold the principles of democracy and fairness, the appointment process ensures that the Chairman is chosen in a transparent and non-partisan manner.

Moreover, by appointing the Chairman from among the members of the committee, it allows for the selection of an individual who has a good understanding of the functioning of the committee and its objectives. This enables the Chairman to effectively lead the committee's work and fulfill its mandate of examining the audit reports and financial transactions of the government.

In conclusion, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee is appointed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. This appointment ensures the independence and impartiality of the committee, while also allowing for the selection of a qualified individual who can effectively lead the committee's work.