what was montague-chelmsford REFORMS? 4

• it was also known as montford report
• the act introduced bicameral system of govt in the centre
• introduced dyarchy in the provinces
• right of voting was granted to only those who paid certain minimum tax to the govt.

the reforms

Central Government

• A bicameral system was introduced at the center, with two houses: the Upper House (Council of State) and the Lower House (Legislative Assembly).
• The Legislative Assembly had 145 members, with 103 elected and 3 seats reserved for Muslims due to separate electorates.
• The Council of State had 60 members, with 33 elected, and members served for five years, whereas Legislative Assembly members served for three years.

The Council of Princes was established with 108 members to allow princes to discuss matters of importance. However:

• The Council of Princes had no real power, and major states like Hyderabad did not join.
• In the central government, Indian roles were further restricted, and vast powers were given to the Viceroy.
• The Viceroy could pass any law deemed necessary for the safety and peace of India, maintaining real control in British hands.

Provincial Government

• Dyarchy was introduced in the provinces, dividing provincial subjects into Reserved and Transferred Subjects.
• Reserved Subjects, including Police, Justice, and Revenue collection, were controlled by Provincial Governors (always British).
• Transferred Subjects, including Local Government, Health, Education, and Public Works, were under the control of Provincial Ministers (Indians) chosen from provincial legislative councils.
• Provincial Governors retained vast powers, controlling Reserved Subjects and having authority over Transferred Subjects and Legislative Councils.
• This meant that the British maintained real power, with only minor concessions.