The Indian Councils Acts were a series of legislative measures enacted by British Parliament to increase Indian participation in governance of British India. These Acts played a crucial role in gradual development of representative institutions in India. Here’s a brief overview of key Indian Councils Acts:
1. Indian Councils Act, 1861
Introduction of Legislative Councils: The Act marked the beginning of legislative councils in India by allowing Viceroy to nominate Indian members to his council. This was the first time Indians were involved in the law-making process, albeit in a limited capacity.
Expansion of Executive Council: The Act also expanded Viceroy’s Executive Council, which now included Indians. This council was responsible for advising the Viceroy on administrative matters.
Decentralization of Power: The Act restored legislative powers to presidencies of Bombay and Madras, allowing them to make laws on certain subjects. This was a move towards decentralization of governance.
Ordinance Power: Viceroy was given power to issue ordinances in case of emergency without consent of legislative council. These ordinances, however, were temporary and had to be approved by the council within six months.
2. Indian Councils Act, 1892
Expansion of Legislative Councils: The Act increased number of members in both central and provincial legislative councils, allowing for more Indian representation.
Indirect Elections: Although not a direct election, the Act introduced the concept of "nominations" by local bodies such as municipalities, district boards, universities, and chambers of commerce. These bodies were allowed to recommend members to councils, which Viceroy or governors would then nominate.
Limited Legislative Powers: Members of councils were given right to discuss budget and address questions to executive. However, their powers remained very limited, and councils were primarily advisory bodies.
Increased Role in Governance: The Act allowed for greater Indian participation in governance, although British retained control over key decisions.
3. Indian Councils Act, 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms)
Introduction of Separate Electorates: The Act introduced system of separate electorates for Muslims, allowing them to elect their representatives separately. This was a significant step in recognizing communal representation in Indian politics.
Further Expansion of Legislative Councils: The Act significantly increased the number of members in both central and provincial legislative councils, with a larger proportion of Indians.
First Indian in Executive Council: The Act allowed for inclusion of Indians in Viceroy’s Executive Council, with Satyendra Prasanna Sinha becoming first Indian to join as a law member in 1909.
Limited Legislative Powers: While the Act expanded councils, elected Indian members still had limited powers, with real control remaining with the British authorities.
4. Indian Councils Act, 1919 (Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms)
Introduction of Dyarchy: The Act introduced the dyarchy system in the provinces, dividing the subjects of administration into two categories: reserved (under British control) and transferred (under Indian ministers). This was an important step towards self-governance at the provincial level.
Bicameral Legislature: The Act introduced a bicameral legislature at the central level, comprising the Council of State and the Legislative Assembly, with more Indian representation.
Expanded Electorate: The Act expanded the electorate, allowing a larger number of Indians to participate in elections, though the voting rights were still limited and based on property qualifications.
Increased Legislative Powers: The councils were granted more powers, including the ability to pass laws on transferred subjects. However, Viceroy retained ultimate authority, and critical areas like defense and foreign affairs remained under British control.
Conclusion
The Indian Councils Acts were instrumental in gradually increasing Indian participation in governance. Each Act expanded the role of Indians in the legislative process, though real power remained with British authorities. These Acts laid the foundation for more significant reforms, eventually leading to India’s independence. The introduction of separate electorates, while expanding representation, also sowed the seeds of communal divisions that would later impact India's political landscape.
Previous - Government of India Acts
Next - Indian Independence Act, 1947