LJ002: Councils Act of 1861

1. Background

1.1. The GoI Act 1858 did not alter the administration drastically.

1.2. Need of the help of locals for smooth functioning of the administration in India

1.3. Centralisation of administration did not yield desired results

2. Provisions of 1861 Act

2.1. The executive council of Governor General was expanded.: Addition of fifth member of the Executive Council.

2.2. The Governor General was bestowed with greater decision making powers.

2.3. The Portfolio system was introduced for the first time.

2.4. The Governor-General had the power to issue ordinances without the council’s concurrence during emergencies.

2.5. Decentralisation of power was done through this act.

2.6. Changes in the Central Legislature

2.6.1. Replaced Legislative Councillors with Additional Members.

2.6.2. Additional meembers were divided into official and non-official members.