The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, also known as the Government of India Act, 1919, were introduced to increase Indian participation in governance. The reforms were based on the Montagu Declaration (1917), which promised gradual self-governance in India. 1. Background ✔ Montagu Declaration (1917): The Secretary of State for India, Edwin Montagu, announced that India would gradually progress […]
Category: Polity
The Indian Councils Act of 1861 was a landmark law passed by the British Parliament to introduce reforms in the governance of British India. It marked the beginning of representative institutions in India by expanding the Governor-General’s Council and allowing Indians to participate in the legislative process. 1. Background of the Indian Councils Act (1861) […]
The Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909, also known as the Indian Councils Act of 1909, was a significant step in the constitutional development of British India. It introduced separate electorates for Muslims and expanded the role of Indians in legislative councils. 1. Background of Morley-Minto Reforms ✔ Growing Demand for Representation: ✔ Partition of Bengal (1905): […]
The Charter Act of 1833 was a landmark legislation by the British Parliament that centralized administration in India, ended the East India Company’s commercial role, and expanded British legislative control. It also proposed civil service reforms, allowing merit-based appointments, and legalized Christian missionary activities, significantly influencing India’s governance and society.
The Pitt’s India Act of 1784 was enacted to address the shortcomings of the Regulating Act of 1773, enhancing British government authority over the East India Company while allowing it to manage commerce. Key provisions included establishing the Board of Control for political oversight, increasing the Governor-General’s powers, and asserting British sovereignty over acquired territories. Although it aimed to improve governance and reduce corruption, confusion persisted due to the dual system. This act laid the groundwork for British imperial control in India.
The Regulating Act of 1773 marked the British Parliament’s first step to control the East India Company’s administration in India, addressing corruption and financial mismanagement. It established the position of Governor-General, a Supreme Court in Calcutta, and required Company officials to report to the British government, though implementation faced challenges.