Consider the following statements:
- The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting rights to all the women above the age 21.
- The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in legislature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — 2 only
The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 introduced limited electoral reforms but did not grant universal voting rights to all women above the age of 21. The Government of India Act of 1935, however, explicitly provided reserved seats for women in both provincial and central legislatures, marking a significant step towards women's political representation.
❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms did not recommend granting voting rights to all women above 21; voting rights remained restricted based on property, income, and education qualifications.
✅ Statement 2 – Correct: The Government of India Act of 1935 introduced reserved seats for women in provincial and central legislatures to ensure their political representation.
📝 Short Notes: Constitutional Reforms (1919-1935)
| Feature | Government of India Act, 1919 | Government of India Act, 1935 |
|---|---|---|
| Electoral Reforms | Extended franchise on restricted basis (property, income, education); no universal women's suffrage | Reserved seats for women in provincial and central legislatures |
| Provincial Administration | Introduced Dyarchy (Transferred & Reserved subjects) | Abolished Dyarchy; introduced Provincial Autonomy |
| Central Legislature | Bicameral legislature established | Federal structure proposed (never implemented) |
| Subjects Division | Central and Provincial lists | Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent lists |
| Communal Representation | Separate electorates continued | Extended to more communities including women |
| Judicial Aspect | - | Established Federal Court of India |
Question 4 of 9 Government of India Acts
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