Q. In the Federation established by The Government of India Act of 1935, residuary powers were given to the

Answer: (b) Governor General

Governor-General’s Role: The Governor-General was the linchpin of the constitution, holding powers to act independently on matters of national security.
Three Legislative Lists: The Act proposed Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent legislative lists, but the federal structure still needs to materialize.
Dyarchy at the Centre: Dyarchy was introduced at the Centre, dividing responsibilities between the executive and legislature, though it has yet to come into operation.
Direct Elections: Direct elections were introduced for the first time, extending the franchise to 37 million people from the previous 5 million.
Legislative Structure: The Council of States became a permanent body with a third of its members retiring every three years, while the Federal Assembly had a five-year tenure.
Residuary Powers: The Governor-General retained significant powers, including veto rights, ordinance issuance, and financial authority.

Provincial Autonomy: Dyarchy at the provincial level was abolished, and greater autonomy was granted. Provinces derived authority directly from the Crown.
Governors’ Powers: Governors were Crown nominees with extensive powers, including overriding provincial governments when deemed necessary.
Separate Electorates: The communal award of separate electorates for minorities was implemented.
Bicameral Legislatures: Six provinces—Assam, Bengal, Bombay, Bihar, Madras, and the United Provinces—adopted bicameral legislatures.
Direct Elections: All provincial assembly members were directly elected, enhancing the role of Indian representatives in governance.

Federal Court: The Act provided for the establishment of a Federal Court, which began functioning in 1937.
Abolition of the Council of India: The advisory body to the Secretary of State for India was abolished.
Creation of the Reserve Bank of India: The RBI was established in 1935 to manage India’s monetary policy.
Public Service Commissions: The Act led to the creation of Provincial Public Service Commissions and a Joint Public Service Commission.