The Company Rule and Its Influence on Polity - The First Intervention

Evolution of Indian Polity

Indian polity has witnessed a fascinating journey from ancient times to the present-day democracy. The roots of its modern form can be traced back to the advent of the British East India Company and its influence on India's governance. In this series, we will explore the significant milestones in Indian polity, starting from the Company rule and its impact, to the adoption of the Constitution of India, and finally, delve into pre-Company polity and the influence of European intervention on our political system. Each topic will be discussed comprehensively, shedding light on the transformation of India's governance over time.

Starting from the English/British East India Company Rule

The Company Rule and Its Influence: Following the pivotal Battle of Buxar in 1765, the British East India Company acquired the Diwani rights over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, which included revenue collection. The Company appointed two Indian Deputy Diwans to oversee the territories - Mohammad Reza Khan for Bengal and Raja Shitab Rai for Bihar.

During the years 1765-1772, the British Government made a significant intervention in Indian affairs, demanding a 10% share in the plunder, totaling 4 million pounds annually. Throughout this seven-year period, a dual system of government prevailed, wherein the British East India Company held authority without responsibility, while its Indian representatives bore the burden of responsibility without possessing authority. This era was marked by rampant corruption among Company servants, who exploited private trading to amass personal wealth. Moreover, the Company's excessive revenue collection and oppression of the peasantry added to the challenges faced. Paradoxically, while the Company faced bankruptcy, its servants enjoyed affluence.

Need for Regulation

The unchecked power and corrupt practices of the British East India Company culminated in a severe financial crisis. The situation was exacerbated by the devastating Bengal famine of 1770, which severely impacted revenue collection. In a desperate situation, the Company sought an immediate loan and turned to the British Government for assistance. In response to these issues, the British Government decided to regulate the Company, seeking to instill some order into its operations.

Parliamentary Intervention and the Regulating Act of 1773:

In response to the Company's crisis, the British Parliament took decisive action to regulate its affairs. Under the direction of the Prime Minister of England, a select committee was appointed to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the Company's affairs. The committee's findings played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Regulating Act of 1773, which marked a critical turning point in the constitutional history of the Company.

Through the Regulating Act, significant changes were introduced to address issues of corruption and mismanagement. The Home government in England underwent restructuring, with the inclusion of the Court of Directors and the Court of Proprietors. The Act curtailed the Company's early autonomy, subjecting it to parliamentary oversight and control. These measures aimed to bring order and accountability to the Company's operations, transforming the dynamics of its governance in India.

Conclusion:

The Regulating Act of 1773 brought order to the British East India Company's business in India, laying the groundwork for future reforms and transformations in Indian polity. Subsequent acts and developments would shape India's governance until the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950, which solidified the present-day democratic system.

Understanding the historical significance of the Company rule and its influence on Indian polity is essential for comprehending the evolution of India's governance from ancient times to its current democratic form. This series will continue to explore various aspects of Indian polity, revealing the rich tapestry of its past and its enduring impact on the nation's present and future.

Imp. - In this comprehensive series, we aim to cover every act, chapterwise and topicwise that influenced Indian polity from 1773 to 1947. From the Regulating Act of 1773, which marked the beginning of significant reforms, to the transformative Government of India Act of 1935, we will delve into each legislative milestone that shaped India's governance during this crucial period. we will try unravel the complexities of India's political evolution, understanding how these acts played a crucial role in paving the way towards India's journey to independence in 1947.

Additionally, as and when required, each topic or chapter will be accompanied by the author's remarks and comments. These insights will provide a deeper understanding of the historical context, the implications of each act, and the varying perspectives that shaped the course of India's political evolution.