Government of India Act 1858

Government of India Act 1858

      Following the Revolt of 1857 commonly referred to as the First War of Independence or the “sepoy mutiny,” this important Act was passed. The legislation referred to as the Good Government Act of India, disbanded the East India Company, and gave the British Crown control over the country’s lands, government, and income.

This Act’s characteristics were as follows:

1. 1. It stated that Her Majesty was to rule India going forward and in her name. The title of Governor-General of India was replaced with Viceroy of India. In India, he (the viceroy) served as the British Crown’s immediate envoy. Thus, Lord Canning was appointed India’s first viceroy.
   2. The Act abolished the system of double government by eliminating the Board of Control and the Court of Directors.
   3. It introduced a new position, the Secretary of State for India, who was given full authority and control over Indian administration. This Secretary was a member of the British Cabinet and was ultimately accountable to the British Parliament.
   4. A 15-member Council of India was established to assist the Secretary of State for India. This council served as an advisory body, with the Secretary of State acting as its chairman.
   5. The Act also established the Secretary of State-in-Council as a corporate entity, allowing it to sue and be sued in both India and England.

The Act of 1858 primarily focused on enhancing the administrative structure that oversaw the Indian Government from England. It did not bring about significant changes to the existing system of government in India.