What is the primary purpose of the Government of India Act of 1919?

• A. To establish a new constitution
• B. To implement diarchy in provinces
• C. To abolish the British Raj
• D. To create a bicameral legislature

Answer: (B)

The Government of India Act of 1919 was primarily aimed at implementing diarchy in the provinces. Diarchy refers to a system of dual governance, where responsibilities are shared between an elected government and appointed officials. This act introduced self-governance in the provinces by separating subjects into "reserved" and "transferred" categories. The "transferred" subjects would be devolved to elected Indian ministers, while the "reserved" subjects remained under the control of British officials.

This act marked a significant shift in the relationship between India and British governance, as it was the first time that legislative powers were extended to Indian representatives, although the control remained with the British. The introduction of diarchy allowed for a greater degree of Indian participation in governance, albeit in a limited way, making it a crucial step towards self-rule.

While the act did address aspects of governance and legislation, it did not aim to establish a completely new constitution or abolish the British Raj. The creation of a bicameral legislature was part of the act, but it was specifically the introduction of diarchy in the provinces that constituted its primary purpose.