CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT (1858 – 1947)

The history of constitutional development in India begins from the passing of the Regulating Act in 1773. The Pitt’s India Act of
1784 and the successive Charter Acts from 1793 to 1853 form part of the constitutional changes under the East India Company’s rule. The Revolt of 1857 brought about important changes in the British administration in India. The rule of the East India Company came to an end. The administration of India came under the direct control of the British Crown. These changes were announced in the Government of India Act of 1858. The ‘Proclamation of Queen Victoria’ assured the Indians a benvelont administration. Thereafter, important development had taken place in constitutional history of India as a result of the Indian National Movement.

Government of India Act of 1858

The Governemnt of India Act of 1858 was passed by the Parliament of England and received royal assent on 2nd August 1858. Following are the main provisions of the Act:

- East India Company’s rule came to an end and the Indian administration came under the direct control of the Crown.

- In England, the Court of Directors and Board of Control were abolished . In their place came the Secretary of State for India and India Council were established. The Secretary of State would be a member of the British cabinet. Sir Charles Wood was made the first Secretary of State for India. India Council consisting of 15 members would assist him.

- The Governor General of India was also made the Viceroy of India. The first Viceroy of India was Lord Canning.

- All the previous treaties were accepted and honoured by the Act.

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