The blueprint for India's Constitution was drafted long before the nation achieved independence. The gradual introduction of representative institutions and democratic principles, though limited in scope, ignited vital discussions and laid the foundation for the principles that would ultimately shape India's democratic constitution. These early experiments, while imperfect, provided invaluable lessons and fueled the aspirations for a truly independent and democratic India.
Some of the important events are like
Regulating Act 1773
- It was introduced by British Government to gain control and regulation authority over the East India Company in India.
- It expresses the political and administrative functions of the company and laid the foundation of central Administration.
- It designated the governor of Bengal as the Governor - General of Bengal and such first Governor General was " Lord Warren Hastings ".
- Also provided for the establishment of a Supreme Court at Calcutta in 1774 having one Chief Justice and three other judges.
Amending Act 1781
- The British Parliament passed the Act of Settlement or Declaratory Act of 1781 to rectify the defects of previous Regulating Act of 1773.
- The provision of this Act was to demarcate the relations between Supreme Court and Governor General in Council.
- It settled the question of jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
Pitt's India Act 1813
- Dual System of Control: The Pitt's India Act of 1784 established a dual system of control over the East India Company.
- Board of Control: A Board of Control was created to oversee the Company's affairs.
- Crown's Authority: The British Crown held ultimate authority over the Company and its territories in India.
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Charter Act 1813
- Extended Company Rule: The British East India Company's rule over India was extended for another 20 years.
- Ended Trade Monopoly: The Company lost its monopoly over Indian trade, except for the trade in tea and opium.
- Education Fund: A fund of one lakh rupees was allocated annually for the promotion of education and knowledge in India.
- Missionary Activity: Christian missionaries were allowed to enter India and spread their religion.
- Increased Crown Control: The British Crown gained more control over the Company's affairs through the Board of Control.
Charter Act 1833
- End of Commercial Role: The East India Company, which had long been a powerful trading entity, was stripped of its commercial functions. It was transformed into a purely administrative body, focusing solely on governing India.
- Centralized Administration: The Governor-General of Bengal was elevated to the Governor-General of India. This centralized administrative control over the vast territories under the Company's rule.
- Legal Reforms: The Indian Law Commission was established with the aim of codifying Indian laws. This was a significant step towards creating a unified legal system across the country.
- Open Civil Service: The Act envisioned opening up the Indian Civil Service to Indians, breaking the monopoly of British officials. However, this ideal was not fully realized for many years due to various factors, including discriminatory practices and bureaucratic hurdles.
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