Provincial assemblies in British India had two houses: the upper house and the lower house.
The upper house was typically called the Legislative Council, and the lower house was typically called the Legislative Assembly.
The upper house was usually composed of a mix of elected and appointed members. The appointed members were typically chosen by the Governor of the province, and they often represented special interests, such as landowners or merchants.
It had less power than the lower house, but it still played an important role in the legislative process. The upper house could review, and revise legislation passed by the lower house, and it could also block legislation from becoming law.
The lower house was typically elected by the people of the province. All men over the age of 21 were eligible to vote, but women were not. It could pass legislation without the approval of the upper house, and it could also vote on the provincial budget.
The lower house was typically the more representative body of the two houses. It was more likely to reflect the views of the people of the province, and it was more likely to pass legislation that benefited the people.
The provincial assemblies in British India played an important role in the development of democracy in India. They provided a forum for Indian leaders to voice their grievances and to demand reforms. The assemblies also helped to create a sense of national unity among the Indian people.
After India gained independence in 1947, the provincial assemblies were renamed state legislative assemblies. The state legislative assemblies continue to play an important role in Indian democracy. They are responsible for making laws on a wide range of subjects, and they also have the power to hold the state government accountable.
Continue to the next section: Evolution of Provincial Assembly/Legislative Councils