Reform of 1909( Morley- Minto Reform): Was it Shade or Real to Indians?
First decade of twentieth century brought the multifaceted warning to British agency holding Indian subcontinent. Policy of Curzon (Viceroy of British India) had already aroused the Indians against British Government. Subsequently it helped in rising of extremists with in INC(Indian National Congress). It too was a time when insurgency and revolutionary act was increasing gradually in Indian subcontinent as well as in overseas.
After a stringent suppression of extremists and revolutionary activists, British Government brought some political concession to placate moderate political leaders. It came in 1909 in the form of Morley-Minto Reforms. It had some provisions which was termed as reform by Britishers which was following:
a) First time a Indian Satyendra Prasad Sinha was included in Viceroy's executive Council.
b) First time introduction of seperate electorate for Muslims.
c) Provision for seperate representations of Presidency Corporation, Chamber of Commerce, Universities and Zamindars.
d) Enlargement of Legislative Council at centre as well as provincial level.
e) Members were allowed to ask supplementary questions, move resolutions and discuss matter of public importance.
Government of India Act 1909 was termed as reform but extremist as well as moderates leader were quite disappointed by Act of 1909. As in 1906, in congress session, resolution was passed for Swaraj (Self Rule), they had more expectations from this Act. They wanted a Parliamentary or more responsible Government in British India.
This Act introduced a communal representation in Indian politics which further divided the nationalist ranks and encouraged the notion that political, economical and cultural interest of Hindu and Muslims were separate. This act retained the majority of official members in Imperial Legislative Council which further reduced the voice of indirectly elected representatives.
However, terming the Act of 1909 as complete disaster too is wrong as it did increases participation of Indians in Legislative Council. At provincial level, non official majority introduced in provincial Legislative Council which strengthened the participation of Indians in Government. This act laid down the basic ground work for Parliamentary system as electoral principle was introduced by this act.
This Act provided a platform for Indian leaders to put their demand aggressively and an opportunity to chalk out policies benefitting Indian society. Act of 1909 was yet another step forward towards a representative form of Government in India.
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