Viceroy’s Council

The body that advised the Viceroy of India in governing British India. Under the Government of India Act 1858, the Viceroy’s Executive Council formed the central executive government, with members responsible for particular departments. The Indian Councils Act 1861 enlarged the Council for legislative purposes by adding nominated members, including Indians. Further reforms in 1892 and 1909 increased Indian representation. The system was replaced by the constitutional arrangements accompanying Indian independence in 1947.