Charters And Acts.pptx (4)

PUNEET BHATIA UPSC IAS/PCS
EXAM
Puneet
PUNEET BHATIA UPSC IAS/PCS
EXAM
Puneet
INDIAN History
PUNEET BHATIA भारत का इ तहास
Puneet
INDIAN History
By Puneet Bhatia
INDIAN HISTORY GS PRELIMS
PUNEET BHATIA
CUM MAINS STRATEGY
Puneet
Modern INDIAN HISTORY
Historical Background Of Indian Constitution
Many regulations and legislation passed before India's independence can be traced
back to the Constitution.
The Indian Constitution's evolution can be divided into two categories:
The Company Rule (1773–1858) is a set of rules that governs how businesses were
run during the East India Company Rule.
The Crown Rule (1858–1947) was a period of British rule that lasted from 1858 until
1947.
Colonial authorities adopted and devised techniques for dealing with Indian concerns,
and India's constitution bears some of the British administration system's legacy.
The Regulating Act of 1773 was the first step taken by the British government to control
and regulate the affairs of the East India Company in India, as well as the first time the
Company's political and administrative functions were recognized.
This act was created as a result of the British East India government's mismanagement,
which caused the company to go bankrupt, forcing the government to intervene.
The Regulating Act 1773 - Historical Background
The East India Company started trading with eastern countries after its establishment in
1600.
After the Battle of Buxar in 1764, the company gained political power in Bengal, Bihar,
and Orissa.
The company was in financial difficulty due to the expansion of the frontier and heavy
expenditure in various wars.
This Regulating Act (1773), passed by the British Parliament, was the first important step
towards parliamentary control over the Indian administration of the Company.
Regulating Act (1773) - Objective
The major goal of enacting the Regulating Act was to keep track of the Company's
operations in India and England, as well as to eliminate any existing flaws.
Regulating Act, 1773 Act - Key Provisions
The Governor of Bengal's name was changed to 'Governor-General of Bengal' and he was
also given the responsibility to oversee the presidencies of Madras and Bombay.
Four Board of Administrators members were selected by the Governor-General in Bengal

(Philip Francis, Clavering, Monson, and Barwell).
Warren Hastings was the first Governor-General, and he was joined by four boards of
administrators.
Only the British monarch on the recommendation of the Court of Directors could remove
these.
The High Court was inaugurated in Calcutta. There were four judges in total, including the
Chief Justice.
Primary and appellate jurisdiction was assigned to the Supreme Court.
Sir Elijah Impey served as the Chief Justice, while Lemester, Chambers, and Hyde were the
other judges of the court established in 1774.
Military and civilian officers under the Company were prohibited from accepting any gifts,
donations, or prizes from private businesses and Indians, according to this Act.
This law established that the board of directors' term would be 4 years and the number of
members would be increased to 24.
The Crown's authority was further enhanced by the "Court of Directors" via this act.
India's civil and military affairs as well as its revenues were required to be disclosed to the
British Crown.
Regulating Act,1773 Act - Defects
The parliamentary control on the company proved ineffective because there was no
effective mechanism to study the reports sent by the Governor-General in Council.
The Governor-General had no veto power.
The powers of the Supreme Court were not well defined.
This act did not address the concerns of the Indian population who were paying
revenue to the company.
This Act did not stop corruption among the officials of the company.
Conclusion
The Regulating Act of 1773 holds a special significance in the constitutional history
of India.
By this act, a written constitution was introduced for the first time for the
governance of the company in India.
This Act was the beginning of efforts for British parliamentary controls on the
administration of the Company in India.
As a result, the administration of the areas under the Company's rule was no longer
a private affair of the Company's merchants.
The Pitt's India Act 1784 also known as the East India Company Act 1784, was
enacted by the British Parliament to solve the deficiencies of the Regulating Act of
1773 by placing the East India Company's administration in India under British
control.
The act was passed during the tenure of William Pitt the younger in 1784.
Why is it called the Pitts Act, 1784?
In 1783, at the age of 24, Pitt the Younger became England's Youngest Prime
Minister.
Pitt was a talented administrator who championed efficiency and change while
also mentoring the next generation of leaders
The act was passed during the tenure of William Pitt the younger in 1784
Pitts India Act 1784 - Historical Background
After regulating Act 1773, in 1781, the Company's affairs were investigated by both a
Select and a Secret Committee including Supreme Court's relationship with the Bengal
Council
The causes of the Maratha War (1775–82,1803–05, 1817–18) were investigated by the
Secret Committee.
The Company's Directors admitted that the war had beggared them and sought to the
State for another million-pound loan
Pitt's India Act established a system in which the British East India Company and the
British government shared control of India. These transformations lasted until 1858.
The Pitts India Act 1784 – Objective
Pitt's India Act aimed to overcome the deficiencies of the 1773 Regulating Act by
placing the East India Company under British government supervision in India.
Pitts India Act, 1784 – Key Provisions
The Pitts India Act of 1784 separated the East India Company's political and corporate activities.
Only the Company's public affairs and administration in India were subjected to increased government
monitoring.
The Board of Control was formed to help the same.
This Board of Control's members are:

The Chancellor of the Exchequer,
The Secretary of State, and
Four Privy Councilors are among the six officials appointed by the King.
(The Privy Council of the United Kingdom, officially Her Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council, or known simply as the
Privy Council, is a formal body of advisers to the Sovereign of the United Kingdom.)
The Secretary of State was appointed as the Board of Control's President.
The Company was represented by the Court of Directors, and the British government was
represented by the Board of Control, in this dual system of control.
The statute स्टै चूट कानून required all civil and military officers to declare their assets in India and the
United Kingdom within two months of joining.
The number of members on the Governor-council General's has been decreased to three.
The Commander-in-Chief of the British Crown's army in India would be one of the three.
The Governor-General was granted veto power.
Madras and Bombay presidencies became subservient/ dependent to the Bengal Presidency.
Calcutta effectively became the capital of the British Indian colonies.

The Charter Act 1793 or the East India Company Act 1793 was passed by the
British Parliament to renew the charter of East India Company.
This act authorized the company to carry on trade with India for next 20 years.
Charter Act of 1793 – Provisions
The company's dominance over the British possessions in India was maintained by this Act.
The company's trade monopoly in India was extended for another 20 years.
The Act declared that "gain of sovereignty by Crown subjects is on behalf of the Crown and
not in its own right," implying that the company's political activities were carried out on behalf
of the British government.
The Governor-General now has more authority. Under certain circumstances, he might
override his council's judgment.
He was given power over the rulers of Madras and Bombay as well.
The Governor-General could designate a Vice President from among the civilian members of
his Council when he was away from Bengal.
The Board of Control's membership changed. It was to consist of a President and two junior
members who were not necessarily Privy Council members.
The company was now responsible for the payment of the employees and the Board of
Control.
After deducting all costs, the company was required to pay the British government Rs.5 lakhs
from Indian revenue each year.
Senior executives of the company were prohibited from leaving India without permission.
It would be deemed a resignation if they did so.
The corporation has been given the right to issue trade licenses to individuals and corporate
workers in India. 'Privilege' or 'country trade' was the term for this. As a result, opium was
shipped to China.
This Act separated the company's revenue administration and judicial functions, resulting in
the demise of Maal Adalats (revenue courts).
Conclusion
The Company's trading privileges were extended for another twenty years by the Charter
Act of 1793.
Lord Cornwallis was given a specific power to overturn his Council when he was
appointed, but the Charter of 1793 did not extend this power to all Governors or
Governors-General.
The Charter Act of 1793 placed a greater focus on the Governor-power General's over the
other two Presidencies, Bombay and Madras.
The wages of all members of the Board of Control were to be paid from Indian earnings
rather than the British Exchequer.
(Exchequer : the account at the Bank of England in which is held the Consolidated Fund, into which tax
receipts and other public monies are paid)
The Charter Act 1813, commonly known as the East India Company Act 1813, was an Act
of the United Kingdom Parliament that extended the British East India Company's charter
and perpetuated the Company's control in India.
The Company's commercial monopoly was broken, with the exception of the tea and
opium trades, as well as commerce with China, showing the expansion of British
influence in India.
The Act declared the Crown's supremacy over British India, provided 100,000 rupees to
Christian missionaries and allowed them to preach their faith in English.
The Act also enhanced the power of Indian province governments and courts over
European British subjects, and financial provisions were provided to stimulate a
resurgence of Indian literature and the advancement of science.
Charter Act of 1813 – Historical Background
British tradesmen and merchants suffered as a result of Napoleon Bonaparte's

Continental System in Europe (which barred the import of British goods into French
allies in Europe).
As a result, they demanded a share of British trade in Asia and the end of the East
India Company's monopoly, to which the company objected.
Finally, under the Charter Act of 1813, British merchants were allowed to trade in
India under a strict licensing system, but the company retained its monopoly in trade
with China and the tea trade.
Charter Act of 1813 – Objectives
This act's main objective is to extend the Company's control for another 20 years.
Charter Act of 1813 – Provisions

The Crown's jurisdiction over British colonies in India was asserted by this Act.
The rule of the corporation was prolonged for another 20 years. Except for tea,
opium, and trade with China, their trade monopoly was broken.
The Act allowed Indian courts more authority over European British subjects.
This act also gave missionaries freedom to enter India and engage in religious
proselytization धमार्मांतरण.
In accordance with the Act, the missionaries were successful in obtaining the appointment
of a Bishop for British India, with his headquarters in Calcutta.
The act called for a financial grant to support the rebirth of Indian literature and the
advancement of science, as well as greater responsibility for the corporation in the
education of the Indians under their control.
It was decided to set aside one lakh rupees for this purpose.
Conclusion
The Board of Control's direction and supervision powers were created and expanded by
the Charter Act of 1813.
One of the most important provisions of the Charter Act of 1813 was the provision of a
sum of rupees one lakh per year for the revival and improvement of literature and
encouragement of India's learned natives, as well as the introduction and promotion of
scientific knowledge among the inhabitants of British Indian territories.
This was the first step toward recognition of the notion of state education responsibility.
This phrase was, without a doubt, one of the most significant moves done by the British
government in relation to India.
The Charter Act 1833 or the Government of India Act 1833, also known as The Saint
Helena Act 1833 (this act took away the Island of Saint Helena in the southwest
Atlantic from the English East India Company), is an Act of the United Kingdom
Parliament.
The Charter Act 1833 was enacted by the British Parliament to renew the East India
Company's Charter Act of 1813.
The Charter Act of 1833 renewed the East India company's term by 20 years since
the company's commercial and administrative powers granted by the act of 1813
were set to expire by the end of 1833.
The Charter Act (1833) - Historical Background
The Charter Act of 1833 was enacted against the backdrop of significant changes that
had occurred in Great Britain as a result of the Industrial Revolution.
The principle of laissez-faire was accepted as the government's attitude toward the
industrial enterprise.
The Reform Act of 1832 was the result of the liberal movement.
In this climate of liberalism and reform, Parliament was asked to renew the Charter in
1833.
During the formation of the Charter act of 1833, the political atmosphere in Britain was
looking for reforms and liberal ideas.
Charter act (1833) - Objective
The Charter was renewed with the aim of abandoning its trade entirely and permitting
Europeans to settle freely In India.
Key provisions
Office of Governor-General
Governor-General of Bengal was made the Governor-General of India which led to
the Centralization in Administration.
The Governor-General of Bengal was elevated to the position of Governor-General of India,

with the exclusive legislative powers.
Civil and military powers were granted to India's Governor-General.
For the first time, the Government of India was established, with authority over the entire
territory possessed by the British in India.
Lord William Bentick became the first governor-general of India
The act for the first time provided for the appointment of 4th member in the
Governor-General in the council who had no power to sit or vote in council except for the
purpose of making law.
Abolition of Commercial Privileges of the East India Company
All the commercial Privileges of the company were abolished.
This means the company could no longer enjoy its monopoly of China trade and trade of
tea which it enjoyed with charter act 1813.
Financial Centralization
Centralization of financial resources was also provided by the act.
The power of presidency governments to raise revenues and incur expenditure was curtailed
The Governor- General’s council took over all the financial matters including the raising of
revenues and expenditure.
Formation of Law Commission
An attempt to codify laws was made with the charter act of 1833.
Section 53 of the charter act of 1833 provided for the appointment of a Commission known as the Law
Commission. The main aim of the Law Commission was codification and consolidation of Indian law.
In a step towards codifying laws, the first Law Commission was appointed in 1834 under the
chairmanship of Lord Macaulay, the other three members were J.M. Madeira, G.W. Anderson, and
C.H. Cameron represented the presidencies of Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay respectively.
The Law Commission submitted the draft of the Penal Code to the government in 1837 also called
as “Macaulay Code” However the draft had to wait for full implantation till 1860 due to the revolt of
1857.
As a result of the recommendations, the code of civil procedure was introduced in 1859 followed by
the Indian penal code in 1860 and the criminal procedure code in 1862
Attempt to open Civil Services on the Basis of System of Merit
The act removed restrictions as to religion, color, caste, and creed and provided for the free
participation of Indians in the administration of the country.
It has made merit the only criteria for the selection.
The Charter act of 1833 became the first act that made provision to freely admit the natives
of India to share an administration in the country.
It was an attempt to introduce a system of open competition for civil services. However, this
system of open competition was not effectively operated in the near future.
Abolition of Slavery
Governor General-in-Council was directed to adopt measures for the end of

slavery prevalent In India
Slavery was abolished in India with the act Act V of 1843

The Charter Act 1833 - Significance
This act paved the way for the unification of British India and the establishment of a strong
central government in this country.
The act provided for the codification of the laws and also set aside the narrow consideration
of disqualification in the administration of the country.
Elevation of Governor General of Bengal as Governor General of India was a major step
towards consolidation and centralization of the administration of India
This act allowed the natives of India to freely participate in the administration of the county
without any restrictions as to descent, color, caste, creed, etc.
The legislative functions of the Governor General in Council were separated from the
executive functions for the first time. Codification of laws also held a great significance.
The Charter Act 1833 - Defects
The over-centralization burdened the work of the government-in-council to such an extent that he
could not devote time and attention to broad questions of principles or Matters of public
importance was devoted less time and devotion due to the over-centralization
The government was not able to meet the needs, urgency, and requirements of the local
government because there was no representative from the presidencies in the supreme council.
This eventually led to dissatisfaction among the presidencies and they were indifferent towards the
laws and measures introduced by the Supreme Council.
As the central government was established at Calcutta, it was difficult for the Governor
General-in-council to exercise effective control over distant presidencies, particularly because of the
lack of adequate means of communication at that time.
All the power vested in the single authority i.e Governor-General which made the post very powerful
and at times acted as an autocrat.
Conclusion
The Charter Act of 1833 was one of a series of Acts enacted by the British
government in order to expand its administration in India.
The Act's regulations had an impact on the political system of pre-independence

India.
With the passage of the Charter Acts of 1833, the British crown gradually gained
control of Indian administration through the East India Company.
MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements Regulating Act, 1773 Act
1. The Governor of Bengal's name was changed to 'Governor-General of Bengal' and he was also
given the responsibility to oversee the presidencies of Madras and Bombay.
2. Three Board of Administrators members were selected by the Governor-General in Bengal.
3. Warren Hastings was the first Governor-General, and he was joined by four boards of
administrators.
4. Only the British monarch on the recommendation of the Governor-General could remove these.
Which of the statements given above are not correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All
Q2. Consider the following statements: 1784 ACT
The Secretary of State was appointed as the Board of Control's President.
1. The Company was represented by the Court of Directors, and the British government was
represented by the Board of Control, in this dual system of control.
2. The statute required all civil and military officers to declare their assets in India and the United
Kingdom within four months of joining.
3. The number of members on the Governor-council General's has been increased.
4. The Governor-General was granted veto power.

(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) All
Q3. Consider the following statements: 1793 ACT
1. The Governor-General could not designate a Vice President from among the civilian members
of his Council when he was away from Bengal.
2. The company was not responsible for the payment of the employees and the Board of
Control.
3. After deducting all costs, the company was required to pay the British government Rs.1 lakhs
from Indian revenue each year.

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All
MCQs
Q4. Consider the following statements: 1813 Act
1. The Act allowed Indian courts more authority over European British subjects.
2. This act also gave missionaries freedom to enter India and engage in religious proselytization .
3. In accordance with the Act, the missionaries were successful in obtaining the appointment of a
Bishop for British India, with his headquarters in Bombay.
4.The act called for a financial grant to support the rebirth of Indian literature and the
advancement of science.
5. It was decided to set aside Five lakh rupees for this purpose.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 3 and 5 only
(d) All
The East India Company's Charter Act 1853 was the company's last charter act.
The Charter Act 1853 renewed the powers of the Company and allowed it to retain
territories and revenues of Indian territories in trust of the crown for an unspecified period
unlike the earlier charter acts of 1793, 1813, and 1833, which renewed the charter for 20
years.
Lord Dalhousie was the Governor-General of India when the charter act of 1853 was
passed.
The Charter Act of 1853 has its major significance as it marks the beginning of the
Parliamentary system in India.
The Charter Act (1853) - Historical Background
Undue expenditure and unnecessary delay in dispatch business due to the presence of
the court of directors and Board of control.
Territorial and political changes in India after the act of 1833 as the British East India
Company had already annexed Sind and Punjab and a number of other Indian states.
There were also concerns raised about the role of Governor-General of India as
Governor of Bengal as it lead to certain decisions in favor of Bengal
There was also a demand for decentralization of powers and giving the Indians a share
in the management of their own affairs.
It was under the above circumstances that the British parliament decided to renew the
East India Company’s charter in the year 1853.
The Company in the preceding year appointed two Committees to look into the affairs
of the Company. On the basis of their reports, the Charter Act of 1853 was framed and
passed.
The Charter Act (1853) - Objective
The Charter Act of 1853 renewed the powers of the Company and allowed it to retain territories
and revenues of Indian territories in trust for the crown. However, this Charter Act did not
grant commercial privileges for the specific period of time as preceding Charter Acts had
provided.
The Charter Act (1853) – Key Provisions
For the first time, the Governor-legislative General's Council's and executive functions were
separated.
It provided for the addition of six new members to the council, known as legislative councilors.
To put it another way, it created a distinct Governor General's Legislative Council, which
became known as the Indian (Central) Legislative Council.
Members could ask the question and discuss the policies of the Executive Council
Right to veto a bill passed by the Council in its legislative capacity was given to the Executive
Council.
The legislative business was conducted in public and the discussion was oral.
Bills were referred to the Select Committee rather than to any individual member.
Salary of the members
The Charter Act of 1853 provided that the salaries of the members of the Boards of
controls, its Secretary, and other officers would be fixed by the British government
but would be paid by the Company.
Reduce in number of Directors and their power

The number of the members of the court of directors was reduced from 24 to 18 out
of which 6 were to be nominated by the Crown.
The Macaulay Committee of 1854, which was the Committee for the Indian Civil
Service, enforced this scheme.
The court of Directors, by the Act also could alter the boundaries of the existing
states and incorporate the newly acquired state.
This provision was made to create a separate Lieutenant Governorship for Punjab in
the year 1859.
The Charter Act (1853) - Significance
The Charter Act of 1853 indicated clearly that the rule of the Company was not going to
last for a long time.
One of the key features is the clear distinction between Legislative and Executive
council which marks the beginning of the Parliamentary system in India
The Government of India Act (1858) was passed by the United Kingdom Parliament
on August 2, 1858.
The British Parliament to hand over the administrative control of British India from
the East India Company to the Crown.
The Government of India Act, 1858 is also known as The act of good governance.
The Government of India Act (1858) - Historical Background
The 1857 mutiny was put down, but it sent shockwaves across London. It gave a filip that
trading companies should not be allowed to continue as a political power.
British PM was Palmerston.
In India, the rule of the Company was superseded by the rule of the Crown, and the
Secretary of State for India was to exercise the British Crown's powers.
The Government of India Act (1858) - Key Provisions
East India Company was liquidated. Indian territories in Britain were to be governed in the name of
the British queen.
The act made India a direct British Colony.
The Indian civil services were to be instituted to assist the smooth functioning of the administration
of the country. There were provisions for Indians to be admitted into service.
The act put an end to the doctrine of lapse as well as abolished.
The court of directors and the Board of Control of the British East India company were scrapped.
The powers of the company’s Court of directors were shifted to and vested in the Secretary of State
for India (First Secretary of State for India: Lord Stanley)
The secretary of state was to be assisted by a Council of 15 members. The council had only an
advisory role. The Secretary of State for India was made chairman of the Council.
The Secretary of State would also act as a channel of communication between the British
government and the Indian Administration.
The representative of the British government in India was the Governor General/ Viceroy. (
First Governor-General and Viceroy of India: Lord Canning )
The Viceroy and the Governors of the various presidencies were appointed by the Crown.
The Viceroys were to be assisted by an Executive Council.
It was also decided that the remaining Indian Princes would have their independent status
provided they accepted British rule and British suzerainty.
Pardon would be granted to all the Indians who participated in the mutiny except those
who had killed British subjects.
Secretary Of State According To The Government Of India Act, 1858

The Secretary of State was to be a British MP and a member of the Prime Minister's cabinet.
He was a member of the British cabinet and was ultimately responsible to the British
Parliament.
The Indian Councils Act of 1861 was passed by the British Parliament on August 1,
1861.
It changed the composition of the Governor General's council for administrative and
legislative purposes.
The most remarkable component of this Act was Indian participation in the legislative
process.
The Indian Councils Act (1861) - Reasons For Enactment
The Government of India Act of 1858 made important changes in the manner of
governance from England, but it made no significant changes to the Indian government
system.
Following the 1857 Mutiny, there was a widespread belief in England that establishing a
government in India without the participation of Indians in the administration would be
extremely impossible.
The Indian Councils Act (1861) - Provisions
The trend of decentralization was initiated by this act, which restored the legislative powers
of the Bombay and Madras presidencies.
By associating Indians with the law-making process, a new beginning was made for
representative institutions.
Providing for the provision of the Viceroy nominating some Indian members to his extended
council.
Subsequently, three Indians were included in this 1862 Legislative Council - the Raja of
Benaras, the Maharaja of Patiala and Sir Dinkar Rao.
It provided for the establishment of the legislative councils for Bengal, North-Western
Frontier Province and Punjab.
It recognized the Portfolio System (introduced by Lord Canning in 1859) under which, a
member of the Viceroy’s Council was made in charge of one or more departments of the
Government and was authorized to issue final orders on behalf of the council on the matters
of the concerned department.
It also empowered Viceroy to issue ordinances, without the consent of the Legislative
Council during an emergency. The ordinance will be valid for a period of 6 months.
The Indian Councils Act of 1892 was passed with the objective of increasing the size of
various legislative councils in India thereby increasing the engagement of Indians with
respect to the administration in British India.
Following the founding of the Indian National Congress, the Indian Councils Act of 1892
represents a significant milestone in India's constitutional and political history.
The Indian Councils Act 1892 - Historical Background
After the Act of 1861, the growth of the Indian Constitution is essentially a story of
political discontent and agitation interspersed with Council Reforms.
The reforms that were reluctantly accepted were always found to be insufficient,
resulting in dissatisfaction and a demand for more reforms.
As a result of the developing sense of nationalism, the Indiana National Congress

offered a number of demands to the British government after its creation in 1885.
During the 1885-1889 session of the Indian National Congress, the Indian National
Congress made various demands.
The Indian Council Act 1892 - Key Provisions
It raised the number of (non-official) members in the Central and Provincial Legislative
Councils while keeping the official majority.
Bombay - 8
Madras - 20
Bengal - 20
North-Western province -15
Oudh - 15
Central Legislative Council minimum - 10, maximum 16
Members could now debate the budget without having the ability to vote on it. They were
also barred from asking follow-up questions.
The Governor-General in Council was given the authority to set rules for member
nomination, subject to the approval of the Secretary of State for India.
To elect members of the councils, an indirect election system was implemented. Members
of provincial councils could be recommended by universities, district boards, municipalities,
zamindars, and chambers of commerce.
Provincial legislative councils were given more powers, including the ability to propose new
laws or repeal old ones with the Governor General's assent.
In the event of the Central legislature, the Governor was given the authority to fill the seat,
while in the case of the provincial legislature, the Governor was given the authority.
The Indian Councils Act (1909), also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, was an Act of
the United Kingdom Parliament that increased Indian participation in the governance of
British India to a limited extent.
The Indian Councils Acts of 1861 and 1892 were revised by this act.
Two major events preceded the Morley-Minto Reforms, which were named after Morley,
the secretary of state, and Minto, the viceroy at the time.
The concept of a separate electorate was introduced under this act.

Morley–Minto Reforms 1909 - Historical Background
The Congress' reasonable intentions were not met by the Indian Councils Act of 1892.
The division of Bengal was carried out by Lord Curzon in 1905. As a result, there was a huge revolt in
Bengal.
Following this, the British rulers realized that some improvements in the Indian government were
required.
In 1906, the INC demanded home rule for the first time.
In England, Gopal Krishna Gokhale met with Morley to stress the importance of changes.
The Simla Deputation met Lord Minto in 1906 and presented their proposal for a separate electorate
for Muslims, led by Aga Khan.
John Morley was a member of India's Liberal government who aspired to improve the country's
governance.
Morley–Minto Reforms 1909 - Key Provisions
At both the federal and provincial levels, the size of legislative councils has increased.
The Central Legislative Council is made up of individuals ranging from 16 to 60.
There are 50 members in each of the Legislative Councils of Bengal, Madras, Bombay, and the
United Provinces.
Each Legislative Council of Punjab, Burma, and Assam has 30 members.
The bulk of provincial council members were non-official.
In total, however, a non-elected majority existed due to the nomination of several non-official
members.
The Imperial Legislative Council welcomed Indians for the first time.
Muslims have their own electorate. In some seats, only Muslims were allowed to vote, and
only Muslims could vote for their representatives.
The budget could be debated and resolutions could be proposed.
They could also discuss problems that are important to the general population.
They could also inquire about the topic more.
Foreign policy or relations with princely states could not be discussed.
Satyendra P Sinha was named to the Viceroy's Executive Council as the first Indian member
(after great pressure from Morley).
The Secretary of State's Council on Indian Affairs has been expanded by two Indians.
Morley–Minto Reforms 1909 - Defects
To increase the divide between Muslims and Hindus, separate constituencies were
created.
The size of the councils was expanded, but not their functions or powers.
The Governor-position General's and veto power were not affected by the Act.
Members were able to discuss the budget, but they were unable to make any
significant changes to it.
MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements: 1833
1. Civil and military powers were granted to India's Governor-General.
2. For the first time, the Government of India was established, with authority over the entire territory
possessed by the British in India.
3. Lord William Harding became the first governor-general of India
4. The act for the first time provided for the appointment of 4th member in the Governor-General in the
council who had power to vote in council.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
MCQs
Q2. Consider the following statements Charter Act (1853)
1. For the first time, the Governor-legislative General's Council's and executive functions were
separated.
2. It provided for the addition of four new members to the council, known as legislative councilors.
3. Members could not ask the question and discuss the policies of the Executive Council

(a) 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
MCQs
1. East India Company was liquidated. Indian territories in Britain were to be governed in the
name of the British queen.
2. The act did not put an end to the doctrine of lapse.
3. The court of directors and the Board of Control of the British East India company were
continued.
4. The secretary of state was to be assisted by a Council of 25 members.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
MCQs
1. It provided for the establishment of the legislative councils for Bengal, North-Western Frontier
Province and Punjab.
2. It recognized the Portfolio System.
3. It also empowered Viceroy to issue ordinances, with the consent of the Legislative Council during an
emergency.
4. The ordinance will be valid for a period of 3 months.

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
MCQs
Q5. Consider the following statements: The Indian Councils Act 1892
1. After the Act of 1861, the growth of the Indian Constitution is essentially a story of political discontent
and agitation interspersed with Council Reforms.
2. The reforms that were reluctantly accepted were always found to be insufficient, resulting in
dissatisfaction and a demand for more reforms.
3. As a result of the developing sense of nationalism, the Indiana National Congress offered a number of
demands to the British government after its creation in 1885.
4. During the 1885-1889 session of the Indian National Congress, the Indian National Congress made
various demands.

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
MCQs
1. To increase the divide between Muslims and Hindus, separate constituencies were created.
2. The size of the councils was expanded, but not their functions or powers.
3. The Governor General's position and veto power were affected by the Act.
4. Members were able to discuss the budget and they were able to make any significant changes to it.

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
The main purpose of the Government of India Act 1919 also known as the Councils Act
1919 was to expand the participation of the Indian people in the government.
The Act also provided for a Dual System of Government wherein all the
government-controlled activities were divided into two lists.
The Government of India Act (1919) - Historical Background
In June 1917, Edwin Montagu was appointed Secretary of State for India.
The Secretary of State, Edwin Montagu, presented a proposal to the Cabinet outlining his
aim to work toward the gradual development of free institutions in India leading to ultimate
self-government.
Instead of developing free institutions, Lord Curzon advised Edwin Montagu to work toward
strengthening Indian participation in every aspect of government and the gradual creation of
self-governing institutions.
Lord Curzon's ideas were accepted by the Cabinet, and The Secretary of State for India
Edwin Montagu's plans were approved with Lord Curzon's approval.
The Government of India Act (1919) - Key Provisions
Diarchy
Introduction of Diarchy at the Provincial Level.
Diarchy means a dual set of governments where one set of government was
accountable while the other was not.
Control over provinces was relaxed by demarcating subjects as ‘central subjects’ and
‘provincial subjects
Division of Subjects
The provincial government's subjects were separated into two divisions.
The reserved subjects were under the supervision of the province's British governor,
while the transferred subjects were assigned to the province's Indian ministers.
Local self-government, public works, sanitation, industrial research, and the

establishment of new companies were all on the Transferred List.
Justice Administration, Press, Revenue, Forests, Labour Dispute Settlements, Water,

Agricultural Loans, Police, and Prisons were among the items on the Reserved List.
The Secretary of State and the Governor-General had the authority to intervene in
things covered by the reserved list, but only to a limited extent in matters covered by
the transferred list.
Legislative Changes
Legislature had no power to pass any bill without the assent of The Viceroy while on the
contrary Viceroy could enact a bill without the legislature assent
Bicameralism was introduced in the Central Legislature by this act.
The lower house was the Legislative Assembly, with 145 members serving three-year
terms and the upper house was the Council of States with 60 members serving five-year
terms.
The legislators, under the new reforms, could now ask questions, pass adjournment
motions and vote a part of the budget, but 75% of the budget was still not votable.
Composition of Lower House:
The Lower House would consist of 145 members, who were either nominated or
indirectly elected from the provinces.
It had a tenure of 3 years.

41 nominated (26 official and 15 non-official members)
104 elected (52 General, 30 Muslims, 2 Sikhs, 20 Special).
Composition Upper House:
The Upper House would have 60 members. It had a tenure of 5 years and had only male
members.
26 nominated
34 elected (20 General, 10 Muslims, 3 Europeans and 1 Sikh).
Electoral provision
The communal representation was extended to include Sikhs, Europeans and Anglo-Indians.
The Franchise (Right of voting) was also granted but only to a limited number of people.
There was a provision to provide reservation to the non-Brahmins in Madras and the
depressed classes were also offered nominated seats in the legislatures.
Other Provisions
The Act provided for the establishment of a Public Service Commission in India.
The number of Indians in The Executive Council was three out of eight.
It established an office of the High Commissioner for India in London.
The Government of India Act (1919) - Significance
This act expanded the election area in India and people now began to understand the significance of
voting.
Some women got the right to vote, for the first time
By the Government of India act, 1919 , the government for the first time showed its intention
of gradual introduction of responsible government in India.
Concept of Self Government in Provinces was introduced. Power given to the people for
administration and administrative pressure from the government was greatly reduced.
Self Government now become a Government Policy therefore the demand of Nationalist and Home
rule League could not be termed as seditious anymore
Indians now become aware about the process of administration which makes them more awaken
towards achieving the goal of Swaraj
The Government of India Act (1919) - Defects
It further develop a sense of communalism as a representation of specific caste and

religion was given
Provincial ministers were not given any control over finances and over the bureaucrats.
Ministers were often not consulted on important matters too and could be overruled by
the governor on any matter that the latter considered special.
Governor was given the power to make decisions on all important matters related to
administration, he could also overrule the decisions taken by the council of ministers.
Elected Indian ministers were given no real powers.

Conclusion
The Act ushered in reforms at both the federal and provincial levels of government.
It provided for a Dual System of Government where all government-controlled activities

were divided into two lists.
By the Government of India act, 1919, the government for the first time showed its
intention of the gradual introduction of responsible government in India.
Power given to the people for administration and administrative pressure from the
government was greatly reduced.
Government of India Act 1935 was passed by British Parliament in August 1935 this
was the longest act passed by British Parliament so far and was later split into two
parts. Government of India Act 1935 and Government of Burma Act 1935.
The Government of India Act 1935 derived material from four key sources.
Report of the Simon Commission, discussions at the Third Round Table Conference,
the White Paper of 1933 and the reports of the Joint select committees.
This act ended the system of diarchy introduced by GOI Act 1919 and provided for
establishment of a Federation of India to be made up of provinces of British India and
some or all of the Princely states.
However, the federation never came into being as the required number of princely
states did not join it.
Features of the Act
1. It provided for the establishment of an All-India Federation consisting of
provinces and princely states as units. The Act divided the powers between the
Centre and units in terms of three lists—Federal List (for Centre, with 59 items),
Provincial List and the Concurrent List. Residuary powers were given to the
Viceroy. However, the federation never came into being as the princely states did
not join it.
2. It abolished diarchy in the provinces and introduced ‘provincial autonomy’ in its

place. The provinces were allowed to act as autonomous units of administration in
their defined spheres. Moreover, the Act introduced responsible governments in
provinces, that is, the governor was required to act with the advice of ministers
responsible to the provincial legislature. This came into effect in 1937 and was
discontinued in 1939.
3. It provided for the adoption of diarchy at the Centre. Consequently, the
federal subjects were divided into reserved subjects and transferred subjects.
However, this provision of the Act did not come into operation at all.
4. It introduced bicameralism in six out of eleven provinces. Thus, the

legislatures of Bengal, Bombay, Madras, Bihar, Assam and the United
Provinces were made bicameral consisting of a legislative council (upper
house) and a legislative assembly (lower house). However, many restrictions
were placed on them.
5. It further extended the principle of communal representation by providing
separate electorates for depressed classes (scheduled castes), women and labour
(workers).
For example, the seats in a constituency are reserved for a specific group 'A' in the
Separate Electorate System.
The voters are only from community 'A'. The applicants are only from community
'A'. The winners are only from community 'A'. Other groups in that particular
constituency do not engage in elections at all.
- During British rule, the Muslims, Sikhs and the Anglo Indians were granted
separate or communal voters.
6. It abolished the Council of India, established by the Government of India Act of
1858. The secretary of state for India was provided with a team of advisors.
7. It extended franchise. About 10 per cent of the total population got the voting
right.
8. It provided for the establishment of a Reserve Bank of India to control the

currency and credit of the country.
9. It provided for the establishment of not only a Federal Public Service

Commission but also a Provincial Public Service Commission and Joint Public
Service Commission for two or more provinces.
10. It provided for the establishment of a Federal Court, which was set up in 1937.
The main objectivity of the act of 1935 was that the government of India was
under the British Crown.
So, the authorities and their functions derive from the Crown, in so far as the
crown did not itself retain executive functions.
Hence, the act of 1935 served some useful purposes by the experiment of
provincial autonomy, thus we can say that the Government of India Act 1935
marks a point of no return in the history of constitutional development in India.
MCQs
1. Legislature had no power to pass any bill without the assent of The Viceroy while on the contrary
Viceroy could enact a bill without the legislature assent
2. Bicameralism was introduced in the Central Legislature by this act.
3. The lower house was the Legislative Assembly, with 245 members serving three-year terms.
4.The legislators, under the new reforms, could now ask questions, pass adjournment motions and vote
a part of the budget, but 5% of the budget was still not votable.

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) All
MCQs
Q2. Consider the following statements: 1919 Act
1. The communal representation was extended to include Sikhs, Europeans and Muslims.
2. The Right of voting was also granted to a large number of people.
3. There was a provision to provide reservation to the Brahmins in Madras.
4. The Act provided for the establishment of a State Service Commission in India.
5. The number of Indians in The Executive Council was five out of eight.

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2,3 and 4 only
(c) 1,2 and 5 only
(d) All
MCQs
Q3. Consider the following statements: The Government of India Act (1919) - Defects
1. It further develop a sense of communalism as a representation of specific caste and religion was given
2. Provincial ministers were not given any control over finances and over the bureaucrats.
3. Ministers were often not consulted on important matters too.
4. Governor was not given the power to make decisions on all important matters
5. Elected Indian ministers were given real powers.

(a) 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 4 and 5 only
Thank
You

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PUNEET BHATIA UPSC IAS/PCS

The Indian Constitution's evolution can be divided into two categories:

Four Board of Administrators members were selected by the Governor-General in Bengal

Primary and appellate jurisdiction was assigned to the Supreme Court.

The Governor-General had no veto power.

The powers of the Supreme Court were not well deﬁned.

The Pitts India Act 1784 – Objective

The Board of Control was formed to help the same.

This Board of Control's members are:

The Governor-General was granted veto power.

Calcutta effectively became the capital of the British Indian colonies.

British tradesmen and merchants suffered as a result of Napoleon Bonaparte's

Charter Act of 1813 – Provisions

The Governor-General of Bengal was elevated to the position of Governor-General of India,

Lord William Bentick became the ﬁrst governor-general of India

All the commercial Privileges of the company were abolished.

Centralization of ﬁnancial resources was also provided by the act.

It has made merit the only criteria for the selection.

Governor General-in-Council was directed to adopt measures for the end of

Slavery was abolished in India with the act Act V of 1843

The Act's regulations had an impact on the political system of pre-independence

2. Three Board of Administrators members were selected by the Governor-General in Bengal.

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

3. The number of members on the Governor-council General's has been increased.

4. The Governor-General was granted veto power.

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

Reduce in number of Directors and their power

British PM was Palmerston.

The act made India a direct British Colony.

The act put an end to the doctrine of lapse as well as abolished.

The Viceroys were to be assisted by an Executive Council.

Secretary Of State According To The Government Of India Act, 1858

As a result of the developing sense of nationalism, the Indiana National Congress

The concept of a separate electorate was introduced under this act.

The Central Legislative Council is made up of individuals ranging from 16 to 60.

Each Legislative Council of Punjab, Burma, and Assam has 30 members.

The bulk of provincial council members were non-ofﬁcial.

The budget could be debated and resolutions could be proposed.

They could also inquire about the topic more.

Foreign policy or relations with princely states could not be discussed.

1. Civil and military powers were granted to India's Governor-General.

3. Lord William Harding became the ﬁrst governor-general of India

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

2. The act did not put an end to the doctrine of lapse.

4. The secretary of state was to be assisted by a Council of 25 members.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

2. It recognized the Portfolio System.

4. The ordinance will be valid for a period of 3 months.

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

Introduction of Diarchy at the Provincial Level.

The provincial government's subjects were separated into two divisions.

Local self-government, public works, sanitation, industrial research, and the

Justice Administration, Press, Revenue, Forests, Labour Dispute Settlements, Water,

Bicameralism was introduced in the Central Legislature by this act.

It had a tenure of 3 years.

Composition Upper House:

It further develop a sense of communalism as a representation of speciﬁc caste and

Elected Indian ministers were given no real powers.

It provided for a Dual System of Government where all government-controlled activities

2. It abolished diarchy in the provinces and introduced ‘provincial autonomy’ in its