The Indian Councils Act of 1861 introduced transformations in the executive council system in India. It was introduced by Lord Canning, then-viceroy and Governor-General. The Act gave rise to a portfolio system and created departments within the council. 

The main aim of this Act was to gain support from Indians by the British in order to continue their operations. There was a rising demand for representation by Indian citizens as well as Presidencies that convinced the British Government to implement this law.

Timeline of EIC in India

Indian Councils Act 1861

In 1861, the British Government decided to expand the legislative Councils. This was done through the Indian Councils Act of 1861. The main provisions of the Act were as follows –

1. the Governor-General’s Council was expanded for legislative purposes by adding 6-12 new members, to be nominated for two years, 
2. prior sanction of the Governor-General was essential for introducing some measures, 
3. every Act passed by the Legislature in India was subject to approval of Her Majesty acting through the Secretary of State-in-Council, 
4. the Governor-General was authorized to exercise a veto and issue ordinances in an emergency, and 
5. the strength of the Governor-General’s Council for executive purposes was raised to five by addition of one more member.

Impact of Indian Councils Act 1861

1. The Act helped bring some changes in the legislative system.
2. The involvement of Indians created new possibilities and hopes for the country.
3. The division of departments was an organized way to improve functioning.
4. Although it encouraged Indian representation, there were no major changes or results of this inclusion.
5. Despite changes, the final ruling power lied with the Governor-General, hence it did not lead to any major improvement.

Indian Councils Act 1892

After formation of the Congress in 1885, Indians slowly started demanding more and more liberties from the British. This led to many piecemeal reforms. In 1892 another Act was passed to further expand and strengthen the legislative councils. The main features of the Act were as follows – 

1. the strength of the central and provincial legislative councils was expanded by adding 8-20 new members, 
2. two fifth of these new additional members were to be non-officials, 
3. The Governor-General-in-Council was authorized to make rules subject to the sanction of the Secretary of  State-in-Council, for discussion of annual financial statements and for asking questions.

Criticisms of the Indian Council Act 1892

• In 1892 and 1893, Indian National Congress criticized the 1892 Act.
• It was unhappy due to the absence of direct elections.
• Despite this, the Act’s liberal rules let nationalist leaders join legislatures and represent Indians’ voice.

Indian Councils Act of 1861-1892, Indian Councils Act of 1861-1892

Read Also : Government Of India Act, 1858