India Councils Act 1861: Changes

Changes brought about by the India Councils Act 1861

1  -      Restored the powers of Govts. (eg: power of legislation to governor-in-councils) of Madras and Bombay.

2  -      Viceroy’s council was expanded by one more member expert in law.

3  -      Executive functions: Council of the Governor General expanded and a fifth member was added.

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4  -      Legislative functions: Not <6 and not >12 members were to be nominated by the Governor General and they were to hold the office for 2 years

5  -      Any bill relating to the public revenue or debt, religion, military, naval or foreign relations cannot be passed without the assent of the Governor General.

6  -      Formation of legislative councils in provinces other Madras and Bengal.

7  -      Portfolio System started. (What was Portfolio system – Portfolio referred to business of govt dept. Therefore, each portfolio became the responsibility of a single council member)

8  -      No difference between central and provincial subjects.