Q. Consider the following statements:

  1. The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting rights to all the women above the age of 21.
  2. The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in legislature.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • 1 only
  • 2 only
  • Both 1 and 2
  • Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (b) 2 only

Notes:
  • The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, implemented through the Government of India Act of 1919, introduced limited franchise for women, but did not grant voting rights to all women above the age of 21.
    • Voting rights for women were very restricted and limited to certain categories of women, such as those with property qualifications or members of special interest groups (like graduates).
    • Universal adult franchise was not even discussed at that stage in colonial India, as the reforms were limited and aimed at giving Indians limited participation in governance.
  • The Government of India Act, 1935 expanded the electoral participation of women and provided reserved seats for them in the provincial legislatures.
    • While universal franchise was still not granted, the act allowed a larger number of women to vote compared to the 1919 reforms and allocated a specific number of reserved seats for women in provincial legislatures.
Government of India Act 1919
  • Provincial Government (Legislature)
    • The Government of India Act 1919 expanded the provincial legislative councils, with 70% of members elected, but key limitations persisted. The dyarchical system restricted Indian control to less critical areas, while essential sectors like finance and law remained under British authority.
      • The diarchy was implemented in eight provinces, including Assam, Bengal, Bihar and Orissa, Central Provinces, United Provinces, Bombay, Madras, and Punjab.
      • Women were granted the right to vote.
      • Legislative councils could propose legislation, but the governor’s approval was required. The governor can veto bills and issue ordinances.
      • The legislative councils may reject the budget, but the governor has the authority to restore it if necessary.
  • Central Government (Legislature)
    • The Council of State (Upper House) had 60 members, 26 nominated by the British government and 34 elected by the provincial legislatures.
      • The Legislative Assembly had 145 members—104 elected and 41 nominated. The electorate was limited to property owners and taxpayers.
      • Legislators had the authority to ask questions, pass adjournment motions, and vote on parts of the budget, but 75% of it remained unvoted.
      • The Council of State consisted of only male members and served for 5 years, while the Central Legislative Assembly lasted 3 years.