THE INDIAN COUNCILS ACT OF 1861

This piece of legislation was aimed at securing better understanding between the rulers and the ruled. The Act made important changes in the constitution and working of the Viceroy's Executive Council. It enabled the Viceroy to associate Indians with legislative business. It also vested legislative powers in the Governments of Bombay and Madras. In a way it paved the way for complete internal autonomy which was to follow in 1935.