PPT: Historical Background & Evolution of the Constitution

 Page 1


Historical Background 
& Evolution of the 
Constitution
Page 2


Historical Background 
& Evolution of the 
Constitution
I n t r d u c t io n
The Constitution of India emerged from 200 years of British rule, shaped by various acts 
that profoundly influenced the country's present political structure. 
This journey from Company rule to independence created the foundation for our 
constitutional provisions and democratic framework.
Page 3


Historical Background 
& Evolution of the 
Constitution
I n t r d u c t io n
The Constitution of India emerged from 200 years of British rule, shaped by various acts 
that profoundly influenced the country's present political structure. 
This journey from Company rule to independence created the foundation for our 
constitutional provisions and democratic framework.
Timeline of British Rule in India
1
The Company Rule
1773-1857: East India Company administered Indian territories with gradual 
regulatory oversight from British Parliament.
2
The Crown Rule
1858-1947: Direct British Crown administration following the 1857 revolt, 
leading to systematic governance reforms.
Page 4


Historical Background 
& Evolution of the 
Constitution
I n t r d u c t io n
The Constitution of India emerged from 200 years of British rule, shaped by various acts 
that profoundly influenced the country's present political structure. 
This journey from Company rule to independence created the foundation for our 
constitutional provisions and democratic framework.
Timeline of British Rule in India
1
The Company Rule
1773-1857: East India Company administered Indian territories with gradual 
regulatory oversight from British Parliament.
2
The Crown Rule
1858-1947: Direct British Crown administration following the 1857 revolt, 
leading to systematic governance reforms.
Regulating Act, 1773
The first attempt to regularise Company affairs in India, this act laid the foundation of 
Central Administration. Lord Warren Hastings became the first Governor-General of 
Bengal, supported by an Executive Council of four members.
Administrative Structure
Created Governor-
General of Bengal with 
Executive Council, 
making Madras and 
Bombay presidencies 
subordinate.
Judicial System
Established Supreme 
Court of Calcutta with 
one Chief Justice and 
three other judges.
Ethical Standards
Prohibited private trade 
and bribery amongst 
Company servants, 
ensuring accountability.
Page 5


Historical Background 
& Evolution of the 
Constitution
I n t r d u c t io n
The Constitution of India emerged from 200 years of British rule, shaped by various acts 
that profoundly influenced the country's present political structure. 
This journey from Company rule to independence created the foundation for our 
constitutional provisions and democratic framework.
Timeline of British Rule in India
1
The Company Rule
1773-1857: East India Company administered Indian territories with gradual 
regulatory oversight from British Parliament.
2
The Crown Rule
1858-1947: Direct British Crown administration following the 1857 revolt, 
leading to systematic governance reforms.
Regulating Act, 1773
The first attempt to regularise Company affairs in India, this act laid the foundation of 
Central Administration. Lord Warren Hastings became the first Governor-General of 
Bengal, supported by an Executive Council of four members.
Administrative Structure
Created Governor-
General of Bengal with 
Executive Council, 
making Madras and 
Bombay presidencies 
subordinate.
Judicial System
Established Supreme 
Court of Calcutta with 
one Chief Justice and 
three other judges.
Ethical Standards
Prohibited private trade 
and bribery amongst 
Company servants, 
ensuring accountability.
Pitt's India Act, 1784
This landmark act established the system of Dual 
Government, creating a clear distinction between 
commercial and political affairs. It marked the first time 
Indian territory was acknowledged as British 
possessions.
Court of Directors
Managed commercial affairs of the Company
Board of Control
Supervised political affairs and military 
operations