Expansion of Legislative Councils and Introduction of Elections

The Indian Council's Act of 1909 brought about key reforms in representation by expanding the membership of the Central and Provincial Legislative Councils in India. The Central Legislative Council in Calcutta, for instance, was expanded from 16 to 60 members. The reforms also introduced the concept of elections for the first time, although they were indirect elections. Certain individuals, such as those in the provincial legislative councils, landholders, and Muslim representatives, were given the opportunity to elect members to these councils. However, the electoral system had flaws, as voting rights were limited to the rich and elite, and there were drastic differences in the treatment of Muslims and non-Muslims, which led to further divisions and tensions.