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Sunday, December 29, 2013

Shortcomings of the 1919 Act

The Act of 1919 had many shortcomings. It did not fulfil the demand for responsible government. Also, the provincial Legislatures could discuss Bills in a number of subject areas without the clearance of the Governor-General. Even though theoretically, the Central legislature remained supreme and competent to legislate over the whole field, and notwithstanding any allocation of powers between the Centre and the Provinces, "the previously highly centralised government" was not intended to be converted into a federal one and the Constitution of British India continued to be that of a unitary State.

Above all, the system of dyarchy in the provinces was a dismal failure. The Governor dominated. In the absence of the power of the purse, the Ministers could not effectively implement their policy. Also, the Ministers were not collectively responsible to the Legislature and were only individually appointed advisers to the Governor.

The Congress and Indian opinion remained unreconciled and pressed for further reforms to make the administration more representative, responsible and responsive. World War I was over and there was an air of general expectation. But, what came were the special legislative proposals for repressive measures known as the Rowlatt Bills. These were passed despite widespread opposition. Satyagraha, Non-cooperation and Khilafat Movements for Swaraj under Gandhiji's leadership followed.

 
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