Understanding CP Ilbert and the Council Role

The question asks about the Governor-General under whom CP Ilbert served as a Law Member of the council. To answer this, we need to recall the period in Indian history when CP Ilbert was prominent and his role in the administration.

CP Ilbert was a legal expert who served in British India. His most notable contribution, or rather controversy, was the introduction of the Ilbert Bill in 1883. This bill was proposed during the tenure of a specific Governor-General.

Let's look at the options provided:

• Lord Lytton
• Lord Cornwallis
• Lord Ripon
• Lord Curzon

Lord Cornwallis served in the late 18th century (1786-1793 and 1805). This is much earlier than the time CP Ilbert was active in India.

Lord Lytton was Governor-General from 1876 to 1880. While close in time, the famous Ilbert Bill and CP Ilbert's role as Law Member are associated with the subsequent period.

Lord Ripon served as Governor-General of India from 1880 to 1884. This was a period of significant reforms, including efforts towards local self-government and changes in the judicial system. It was during Lord Ripon's tenure that CP Ilbert served as the Law Member of the Governor-General's Council. As Law Member, Ilbert was responsible for drafting legislation, and he introduced the controversial Ilbert Bill in 1883.

Lord Curzon served as Viceroy from 1899 to 1905. This is a later period, known for events like the Partition of Bengal.

Therefore, CP Ilbert was the Law Member of the council under Lord Ripon.

Analyzing the Role of Law Member in the Council

The Governor-General's Council was an executive body assisting the Governor-General in the administration of British India. The Law Member was a crucial position, responsible for legal matters and drafting laws. This role was introduced following recommendations, evolving over time to become a key part of the council's function.

Based on historical records, CP Ilbert served as the Law Member of the council during the time when Lord Ripon was the Governor-General of India. His role in introducing the Ilbert Bill is a direct link to Lord Ripon's administration.

Revision Table: Governor-Generals and Key Associations

This table helps quickly associate the Governor-Generals with key events or legislative actions during their time. CP Ilbert's most famous involvement is the Ilbert Bill, which is linked to Lord Ripon.

Additional Information: The Ilbert Bill Controversy

The Ilbert Bill, introduced by Law Member CP Ilbert during Lord Ripon's tenure, aimed to allow Indian judges and magistrates the jurisdiction to try British subjects in criminal cases. Previously, British subjects could only be tried by European judges. This bill caused significant outrage among the European community in India, leading to widespread protests and ultimately a compromise that significantly altered the original intent of the bill. This controversy highlighted racial tensions and legal inequalities in British India.

CP Ilbert's position as Law Member under Lord Ripon was central to this significant historical event.