The Indian Councils Act of 1909, popularly known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, marked a significant milestone in the constitutional development of British India. It was the first serious attempt to introduce a representative element into the governance of India by expanding the legislative councils and allowing a limited number of Indians to participate in the legislative process.
Background
Discontent with Previous Reforms: The Indian Councils Act of 1892 failed to meet the aspirations of the Indian populace for greater participation in governance.
- The Indian National Congress (INC), established in 1885, consistently demanded increased legislative representation and involvement in administration.
- Rise of Nationalism: Lord Curzon’s Policies: His imperialist and autocratic measures, including the partition of Bengal in 1905, intensified anti-British sentiments.
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- Swadeshi Movement: The partition sparked widespread protests and the Swadeshi movement, promoting indigenous industries and self-reliance.
- Emergence of Extremists: Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai advocated for more radical approaches against British rule.
- International Influences: Japanese Victory over Russia (1905): Shattered the myth of European invincibility, inspiring Asian nations.
- Discrimination Abroad: Ill-treatment of Indians in British colonies like South Africa fueled national resentment.
- British Response: To pacify growing unrest and the demands of moderate Indian leaders, the British government decided to introduce reforms.
- Lord Minto (Viceroy of India) and John Morley (Secretary of State for India) collaborated on the reform proposals.
Key Provisions of the Act
Expansion of Legislative Councils |
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Introduction of Separate Electorates |
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Representation of Specific Interests |
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Increased Indian Participation |
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Powers of Legislative Councils |
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Limitations of the Act
- Limited Franchise and Indirect Elections:
- Electorate was very narrow, based on property, taxation, or educational qualifications.
- Elections were indirect, with elected members chosen by electoral colleges rather than direct popular vote.
- No Real Legislative Power
- Councils remained advisory; the executive was not responsible to them.
- Resolutions and discussions had no binding effect on the government.
- Communalization of Politics
- Separate Electorates:
- Fostered divisions along religious lines.
- Set a precedent for communal representation, leading to long-term communal tensions.
- Separate Electorates:
- Representation of Elites
- Emphasized representation of landlords and commercial interests.
- Did not reflect the broader interests of the common populace.
Significance
- First Step Towards Representative Governance
- Introduced elective principles in the legislative councils.
- Recognized the importance of Indian participation in governance.
- Increased Political Awareness
- Provided a platform for Indian leaders to articulate grievances and demands.
- Encouraged political debates and discussions on public matters.
- Foundation for Future Reforms
- Highlighted the need for more substantial constitutional reforms.
- Set the stage for the Government of India Act, 1919 and subsequent demands for self-governance.
The Government of India Act, 1919 (The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms)
The Government of India Act, 1919, also known as the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, was a significant constitutional reform that aimed to introduce self-governing institutions gradually in India. It marked a substantial step towards responsible government by introducing Dyarchy in the provinces and expanding the participation of Indians in governance.
Background
- Demand for Self-Government
- Growing nationalist sentiments and demands for Swaraj (self-rule) by the Indian National Congress.
- Contributions of India in World War I heightened expectations for political concessions.
- Montagu’s Declaration (August 20, 1917)
- Edwin Montagu, the Secretary of State for India, declared the British policy of increasing association of Indians in every branch of administration.
- Promised progressive realization of responsible government in India.
- Collaboration between Montagu and Chelmsford
- Lord Chelmsford, the Viceroy of India, worked with Montagu to formulate the reform proposals.
Key Provisions of the Act
Provincial Government: Introduction of Dyarchy |
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Provincial Legislature |
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Central Government |
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Central Legislature |
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Limitations of the Act
- Ineffectiveness of Dyarchy: The division of subjects was impractical and confusing.
- Governors often interfered in transferred subjects, undermining ministers.
- Limited Franchise: Voting rights restricted to a small, privileged section based on property and education.
- Excluded the vast majority of the Indian population.
- Communal Electorates: Further entrenched communal divisions.
- Fostered separatism and hindered national unity.
- No Responsible Government at the Centre: Central executive remained autocratic and unaccountable.
- Legislative powers were limited and often overridden by the Governor-General.
- Continued British Control: Key areas like defense, foreign affairs, and communications remained under British control.
- The Secretary of State and the British Parliament retained ultimate authority.
Significance
- Progress Towards Self-Government: Marked a step forward by involving Indians in administration at the provincial level.
- Provided practical experience in governance to Indian ministers.
- Stimulated Political Participation: Increased political awareness and activism among Indians.
- Encouraged the growth of political parties and leadership.
- Foundation for Future Reforms: The shortcomings of the Act highlighted the need for more comprehensive reforms.
- Set the stage for the Simon Commission (1927) and the subsequent Government of India Act, 1935.
- Catalyst for National Movements: Disappointment with the Act led to widespread dissatisfaction.
- Contributed to the launch of the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) led by Mahatma Gandhi.
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Conclusion
The Indian Councils Act of 1909 and the Government of India Act of 1919 were pivotal in India’s constitutional evolution. While they introduced elements of self-governance and increased Indian participation in administration, both Acts had significant limitations. The communal electorates and restricted powers hindered the development of a truly representative and unified national government. These reforms, though inadequate, were instrumental in galvanizing Indian nationalist sentiments and set the foundation for India’s eventual struggle for complete independence.
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Indian Councils Act, 1909 Also Known As Morley Minto Reforms | Indian National Congress |
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ACT 1919 | Lord Minto-I (1807-1813) |