ICAI Issues Guide on Drafting Modified Audit Opinions

The Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (AASB) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has issued a Practitioner’s Guide on Drafting of Modified Opinions in Independent Auditor’s Reports.

The Guide is intended to assist auditors in effectively drafting modified opinions in accordance with applicable auditing standards.

1. Coverage Under SA 705 (Revised)

The Guide focuses on reporting requirements under SA 705 (Revised) – Modifications to the Opinion in the Independent Auditor’s Report.

It provides practical guidance on drafting:

• Qualified Opinions
• Adverse Opinions
• Disclaimer of Opinions

The objective is to ensure that modifications are expressed clearly, appropriately, and in full compliance with the Standards on Auditing.

2. Key Features of the Guide

2.1 Practical Guidance

• Step-by-step considerations for determining the nature of modification
• Guidance on evaluating materiality and pervasiveness
• Clarification on structure and placement of modified opinion paragraphs

2.2 Illustrative Formats and Suggested Wording

• Model formats for different types of modified opinions
• Suggested wording aligned with SA 705 (Revised)
• Illustrations covering common practical scenarios

These examples aim to enhance consistency in reporting across audit engagements.

3. Continuity with Earlier Implementation Resources

The Practitioner’s Guide builds upon earlier implementation resources issued by ICAI and integrates practical experience gained in applying SA 705 (Revised).

It serves as a complementary reference to the Standards rather than a substitute.

4. Nature of Illustrations and Professional Judgment

The AASB has clarified that:

• The examples provided in the Guide are illustrative in nature
• They do not replace professional judgment
• They do not override the mandatory requirements of the Standards on Auditing

Auditors remain responsible for applying professional judgment based on the facts and circumstances of each engagement.

5. Relevance for Practitioners

The Guide is particularly useful for:

• Statutory Auditors of companies
• Audit practitioners dealing with reporting complexities
• Engagement partners and quality reviewers
• Audit trainees and professionals seeking clarity on modified reporting

6. Key Takeaway

The Practitioner’s Guide strengthens audit quality by providing structured and practical support for drafting modified opinions under SA 705 (Revised), promoting clarity, consistency, and compliance in auditor reporting.

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