Indian Legal History- Indian Council Act 1892

Introduction

Indian Council Act 1892 was another step in reforming legislature in India. It introduce more Indian representation in law making process for Indians.

Indian National Congress was founded in 1885. Their early demands included increase of Indian members in Central Legislature as well as provincial Legislature.

This Act made some efforts to have elected members in Council. So for Central Councils, members were nominated by Bengal Chambers of Commerce as well as Provincial Legislature.

Some Features

It increased the representation of Indians in Legislatures.

Below are Indian representation in Legislatures

  • Central Legislature - Minimum 10, maximum 20
  • Bombay - 8
  • Madras - 20
  • Bengal - 20
  • Oudh - 15
  • North West Province - 15
Members were elected to some extent by Provincial legislatures.

The members of the council were authorized to discuss annual financial statement, but they were not given rights to vote on it or divide the house on any matter. They could ask a question at six days notice.

Political Consequences

This act had a profound political importance. More and more Indians started taking part in law making process. Though they granted limited powers, still Indian leaders used this opportunity to arouse nationalism sentiments.

Remember Gopal Krishna Gokhale ? He was a scholar, and in his speeches exposed British agenda of economic drain right in the legislature council.


Some Comments

Act made efforts to increase Indian members though with limited powers. On many economic matters Indian member could discuss but could not vote.

However the Indian people who went to legislature didn't represent Indians in true sense, as many were nominated and not elected.

Nevertheless, this act was first step in establishment of parliamentary government in India.




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