Correct option is A
The first time an Indian was made a law member on the Viceroy’s Executive Council was under the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909. These reforms introduced significant changes to the British governance in India, including the expansion of the Viceroy's Executive Council to include Indians. A notable inclusion was the appointment of Satyendra Prasad Sinha as the first Indian law member. The reforms aimed at giving Indians a more active role in governance but were still limited by the overall control of the British officials.
Information Booster:
The Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 marked a significant turning point in the political landscape of India, allowing for the first time the inclusion of Indians in the Viceroy’s Executive Council. Satyendra Prasad Sinha was the first Indian appointed as the law member of the Executive Council under the Morley-Minto Reforms. These reforms also introduced the concept of separate electorates for Muslims, marking a significant shift in Indian politics, leading to later communal divisions. The reforms were a result of pressure from Indian political leaders and the growing demand for Indian representation in governance. The Indian National Congress (INC) expressed mixed feelings about the reforms, as the political participation granted to Indians was seen as insufficient. The Morley-Minto Reforms were a precursor to the later reforms like the Montague-Chelmsford Reforms and the Government of India Act, which gradually increased Indian participation in governance.
Additional knowledge:
(b) Montague-Chelmsford Reform - 1919: The Montague-Chelmsford Reforms did introduce significant constitutional changes, such as the introduction of diarchy in provinces.
(c) Government of India Act - 1935: The Government of India Act of 1935 further expanded Indian participation by establishing provincial autonomy and more representation.
(d) Act of 1872: The Indian Act of 1872 focused on the introduction of a formalized system for electoral processes.