The Indian Councils Act of 1909 – The Morley-Minto Reforms

 

*1. What Was It?*

The *Indian Councils Act of 1909* (Morley-Minto Reforms) introduced:
 
✔ First *direct elections* to legislative councils.  
✔ Expanded Central Council (16 → 60 members).  
✔ *Separate electorates for Muslims*—fueling communal division.  
✔ First Indian in Viceroy’s executive council (*Satyendra P. Sinha*).  

*2. Why Did It Matter?*

🔹 *Limited Indian representation*, but real power stayed with the British.  
🔹 *"Divide and Rule"*—separate electorates deepened Hindu-Muslim splits.  
🔹 Paved the way for future political reforms.  

*3. Why Was It Introduced?*
 
✔ *Growing nationalism* (Swadeshi Movement).  
✔ Indian leaders demanded more say in governance.  
✔ British strategy to *weaken unity* and maintain control.