Government of India Act, 1858

The Government of India Act 1858 was an Act of the British parliament that completely ended the rule of the East India Company in India. Company transferred the government and the territory to the British Crown. At this time, Victoria was the queen of Britain. The supreme body in Britain was the British parliament to which the British government was responsible. A post of Secretary of State (A member of the British Cabinet) for India was created. Secretary of the State was to exercise the powers of the British Crown. This act made India a direct British colony.

Background:

The Indian Rebellion of 1857 urged the British Government to pass this Act. To calm down the after effects of 1857 revolt, the Government of India Act of 1858 was introduced.

Key Features of The ACT

• The system of Dual Government by abolishing the Board of Control and Court of Directors introduced by Pitt’s India Act was ended. 
• Through this Act the Governor-General received the title of Viceroy. 
• It created a new office, Secretary of State for India, vested with complete authority and control over Indian administration. 
• The secretary of state was a member of the British cabinet and governed India through the Viceroy in India. Via the Secretary of State, the British parliament were able to ask questions regarding Indian affairs. 
• The Viceroy was to be assisted with an Executive Council. 
• This act also ended the doctrine of lapse. 
• Lord Stanley was the first secretary of State for India. 
• First Governor-General and Viceroy of India was Lord Canning.

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Charter Act of 1833
Charter Act of 1853