The distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution is based on the scheme provided in the(2012)
a) Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909
b) Montagu-Chelmsford Act, 1919
c) Government of India Act, 1935
d) Indian Independence Act, 1947
Answer : C
GOI Act 1935
- It provided for the establishment of an All India federation consisting of provinces and princely states as units.
- It divided the powers between the centre and units in terms of three lists- Federal list, provincial list and the concurrent list. Residuary powers were given to the Viceroy. However, this federation never fructified since princely states did not join it.
- It abolished dyarchy in the provinces and introduced ‘provincial autonomy’ in its place
- The act introduced responsible government in provinces, that is, the governor was required to act with the advice of ministers responsible to the provincial legislature
- It provided for the adoption of dyarchy at the centre. However, this provision did not come into effect at all
- Bicameralism was introduced in six provinces- Bengal, Bombay Madras, Bihar, Assam and the United Provinces
- Separate electorates was further extended to depressed classes, women and labour
- Council of India which was established as per the 1858 act was abolished The secretary of state was instead provided with a team of advisors.
- The act provided for setting up- Federal public service commission, provincial public service commission, joint public service commission, federal court, Reserve Bank of India
