Historical Development of the Constitution of India

These flashcards cover key terminology and significant acts related to the historical development of the Constitution of India.

Regulating Act of 1773

First attempt to regularize company affairs in India and laid the foundation of Central Administration.

Pitt's India Act of 1784

Established a system of Dual Government in India, with the Court of Directors managing commercial affairs and the Board of Control managing political affairs.

Charter Act of 1833

Made Governor-General of Bengal the Governor-General of India, vested exclusive legislative powers in him.

Indian Councils Act of 1861

Empowered the Viceroy to nominate Indians as non-official members and decentralized legislative powers.

Government of India Act of 1919

Introduced bicameralism, direct elections, and separated Central and Provincial subjects.

Indian Independence Act of 1947

Ended British rule in India, declared India independent, and provisioned for partition.

Communal electorate

System introduced by Morley-Minto Reforms, allowing separate electorates for Muslims.

Simultaneous elections

Elections that are conducted nationwide for multiple offices at the same time.

Constituent Assembly

Formed in 1946 to draft the Indian Constitution, adopted on November 26, 1949.

Federal Court

Established under the Government of India Act of 1935 to adjudicate on disputes between provinces and the Center.