Q. In the Government of India Act 1919, the functions of Provincial Government were divided into “Reserved” and “Transferred” subjects. Which of the following were treated as “Reserved” subjects?

Explanation : 

The Government of India Act 1919: Dyarchy Explained

The Government of India Act 1919, also known as the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, introduced a dual scheme of governance known as “dyarchy” in the provinces of British India. Under this system, the provincial subjects were divided into two categories: “Reserved” and “Transferred“.

The “Reserved” subjects were those considered too important or sensitive to be handled by Indian ministers and remained under the direct control of the Governor and the British officials. The “Transferred” subjects were those handed over to the control of Indian ministers responsible to the legislative councils.

The “Reserved” subjects typically included:

Reserved Subjects

1. Administration of Justice: This was considered a critical function that required impartiality and adherence to the rule of law, and it was kept under British control to ensure that British legal standards were maintained.

2. Land Revenue: Control over land revenue was crucial for the colonial administration as it was a significant source of income for the government.

3. Police: The police force was essential for maintaining law and order, and the colonial government wanted to keep this under their direct control to ensure their authority and control over the population.

Local Self-Government, on the other hand, was considered a “Transferred” subject. It was handed over to Indian ministers because it dealt with more local and municipal matters, which were seen as less critical to the overall governance of the province by the British.

Therefore, the correct answer is “1, 3 and 4,” which means that the “Reserved” subjects were:

1. Administration of Justice
3. Land Revenue
4. Police

Local Self-Government was not a “Reserved” subject but a “Transferred” one.