Question

The principle of communal representation in India was first introduced in which Act?

• A. The Indian Council Act, 1909
• B. The Indian Council Act, 1861
• C. Government of India Act, 1935
• D. Indian Council Act, 1892

Answer 1

Answer:

A. The Indian Council Act, 1909

The Indian Councils Act, 1909 / Minto-Morley Reforms

• Communal Electorate: The Indian Councils Act of 1909 introduced a system of communal representation for Muslims by accepting the concept of a 'separate electorate'. Under this, Muslim members were to be elected only by Muslim voters.

• Father of Communal Electorate: Lord Minto came to be known as the Father of Communal Electorate for legalizing communalism in India.