General Studies IIConstitutionHistorical Background

Government of India Act of 1858

The revolt of 1857 which was eventually suppressed gave a death blow to East India  company’s rule in India and new act Government of India Act of 1858 was passed by the British Parliament

Historical Background:

  1. Company upper hand after Charter Act of 1853
  2. Doctrine of Lapse
  3. The Revolt of 1857

Provisions of Government of India Act of 1858

Lord Viscount Canning 1
Lord Canning

• The act known as the Act for the Good Government of India, abolished the East India Company, and transferred the powers of government, territories and revenues to the British Crown

• Governed by, and in the name of, Her Majesty

• Changed the designation of the Governor-General of India to that of Viceroy of India

• The Viceroy was to be assisted with an Executive Council.

• First Viceroy of India: Lord Canning

• Abolishing the Board of Control and Court of Directors (Double Government)

• This act also ended the doctrine of lapse.

• Created a new office, Secretary of State for India (a member of the British cabinet);

• First Secretary of State for India: Lord Stanley

• Established a 15-member Council of India to assist the secretary of state for India

 

Source: M. Laxmikant

THE COMPANY RULE (1773–1858)THE CROWN RULE (1858–1947)
1. Regulating Act of 17731. Government of India Act of 1858
2. Pitt’s India Act of 17842. Indian Councils Act of 1861
3. Charter Act of 18333. Indian Councils Act of 1892
4. Charter Act of 18534. Indian Councils Act of 1909
 5. Government of India Act of 1919
 6. Government of India Act of 1935
 7. Indian Independence Act of 1947

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