Who was the first Indian to join the Viceroy’s Executive Council?
Satyendra Prasad Sinha
Understanding the Viceroy's Executive Council
The Viceroy's Executive Council was a crucial administrative body during British rule in India. It assisted the Viceroy in governing the country. Before a certain period, this council was composed entirely of British officials. The inclusion of Indian members was a significant step, reflecting growing demands for Indian representation in the administration.
First Indian Member of the Viceroy's Executive Council
The question asks about the first Indian person appointed to the Viceroy's Executive Council. This landmark event happened as part of the changes introduced by the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909.
The correct answer is Satyendra Prasad Sinha.
Satyendra Prasad Sinha (later Lord Sinha) was a prominent lawyer and politician. His appointment as the Law Member of the Viceroy's Executive Council broke the long-standing tradition of the council being exclusively British. This was seen as a major political development at the time, although the council's powers remained largely controlled by the Viceroy and the British government.
Key Facts about Satyendra Prasad Sinha's Appointment
- Who: Satyendra Prasad Sinha
- What: First Indian member
- Where: Viceroy's Executive Council
- When: 1909 (as part of the Morley-Minto Reforms)
- Position: Law Member
Significance of the Appointment
The inclusion of an Indian member in the Viceroy's Executive Council, represented by Satyendra Prasad Sinha, was symbolically important. It acknowledged, for the first time, the principle of associating Indians with the highest level of executive administration under the British Raj. While it did not fundamentally alter the balance of power, it was a step towards greater Indian participation in governance.
Revision Table: Key Points
| Event | First Indian Member | Reforms Introduced Under | Position Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joining Viceroy's Executive Council | Satyendra Prasad Sinha | Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909 | Law Member |
Additional Information: Morley-Minto Reforms 1909
The Morley-Minto Reforms, officially known as the Indian Councils Act 1909, were a set of changes introduced by the British government to the legislative councils in India. Key features included:
- Enlargement of legislative councils at the Centre and in the provinces.
- Introduction of separate electorates for Muslims.
- Association of Indians with the executive councils of the Viceroy and Governors.
Satyendra Prasad Sinha's appointment was a direct outcome of the provision allowing for Indian membership in the Viceroy's Executive Council under these reforms.
Important Questions from Rise of British Power
The Supreme Court was established at Fort William in _______ as the Apex Court in 1774.
In which year was Jhansi annexed by Lord Dalhousie under the policy Doctrine of Lapse?
Which of the following was adopted by Lord Dalhousie to annex Indian states?
Which of the following Acts created a unified administration system for India?
Which of the following territories was annexed by the British Governor General Lord Dalhousie before the 1857 revolt that fueled the First War of Independence?
