Regulation 156 — Audit Regulations 2020
Original Rule Text
156. Types of evidence to be used by Audit
Evidence may take many forms, such as electronic and paper records of transactions, written and electronic communication with outsiders, photographs, videos, results of survey or study, observations by the auditor and oral or written testimony by the audited entity. The auditor may rely upon evidence from internal sources of the auditable entity as well as from external sources.
What This Means
Audit evidence can take many forms — it is not limited to paper documents. Acceptable forms include electronic and paper transaction records, written and electronic communications with external parties, photographs, videos, survey or study results, the auditor's own observations, and oral or written testimony from the audited entity. The auditor can use evidence from both internal sources (within the entity) and external sources (outside parties, banks, vendors, etc.).
This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.
Key Points
- 1Audit evidence is not limited to paper documents — electronic records are equally valid
- 2Photographs, videos, and survey results can serve as audit evidence
- 3The auditor's own observations (e.g., during site visits) constitute valid evidence
- 4Oral testimony from the audited entity can be used as evidence
- 5Both internal and external sources of evidence are acceptable
Practical Example
During a performance audit of the Swachh Bharat Mission, the audit team uses multiple types of evidence: (1) electronic records from the MIS showing toilets marked as constructed, (2) photographs taken during physical verification showing incomplete or non-existent toilets, (3) video recordings of discussions with beneficiaries denying receipt of materials, (4) bank statements confirming payments to contractors, and (5) written testimony from the Block Development Officer about implementation challenges. All these diverse forms of evidence together build a robust audit finding.
This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is oral testimony sufficient on its own to support an audit finding?▼
Can photographs and videos be challenged by the auditable entity?▼
This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.