Which of the following Acts introduced Indian representation in Legislative Councils?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Indian Councils Act of 1861

Explanation:

The Indian Councils Act of 1861 was the first major step towards introducing Indian representation in the legislative councils. The Act laid the foundation for Indian participation in the legislative process, though the involvement was limited at this stage.

Information Booster:

The Indian Councils Act of 1861 introduced several significant reforms to the British colonial governance in India:

1. Introduction of the Portfolio System: Lord Canning's 'portfolio system' was formalized, assigning specific government departments to individual council members. This aimed to improve administrative efficiency by allowing council members to make final decisions in their assigned areas.

2. Legislative Devolution to Provinces: The act restored some legislative powers to the Bombay and Madras Presidencies, reversing the centralization of previous acts. It also established legislative councils in Bengal (1862), North-Western Frontier Province (1866), and Punjab (1897), paving the way for increased provincial autonomy.

3.  Nomination of Indian Members: The Viceroy was given the authority to nominate Indians to the legislative councils. Lord Canning nominated prominent Indians, including the Raja of Benaras, the Maharaja of Patiala, and Sir Dinkar Rao.

4.  Viceroy's Ordinance Power: The act granted the Viceroy the power to issue ordinances in emergencies, which would be valid for up to six months without legislative approval. This provision reinforced the Viceroy’s control over governance during crises.

5.   Empowerment to Regulate Council Business: The act empowered the Viceroy to issue rules and orders to regulate the functioning of the legislative councils, ensuring the smooth operation of the legislative process under his control.

Additional Knowledge:

Indian Councils Act of 1892: This Act followed the 1861 Act and allowed for some Indian elections to the Legislative Councils. It increased the number of Indians in these bodies but still left the executive and legislative powers largely in the hands of the British.

Charter Act of 1813: This Act allowed for the renewal of the East India Company’s charter and focused mainly on economic and trade issues rather than Indian representation in governance.

Charter Act of 1853: The 1853 Act was primarily focused on civil service reforms and did not introduce Indian participation in the legislative process.