Evolution of Indian Democracy & Constitutional Acts

The historical evolution of the Indian democratic system from the 'Kudavolai' system of the Cholas to modern parliamentary democracy and the importance of the Rule of Law principle.

The 1919 Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms and the 1935 Government of India Act laid very important foundations for the formation of the Constitution of independent India.

📚 School Textbook Link: 11th Standard / 10th Standard · Political Science / Social Science · 11th Polity: Unit 2 (Democracy) / 10th Social: Indian Constitution & Chola History · Evolution of Democracy, Kudavolai System & Government of India Acts

🎯 TNPSC Exam Key Notes:

• Inscription mentioning the Kudavolai election system during the Chola period: Uttiramerur inscription of Parantaka I (Kanchipuram district).
• Kudavolai committee member qualification: 35 to 70 years age limit, 1/4 'veli' land ownership, own house, proficiency in Vedas & Shastras.
• 1919 Montagu-Chelmsford Act: Introduced 'Dyarchy' (Reserved Subjects & Transferred Subjects) in the provinces.
• 1935 Government of India Act: Abolished 'Dyarchy' in the provinces and granted 'Provincial Autonomy'; proposed Dyarchy at the Centre.
• Provincial Assembly elections were held in 1937 through the 1935 Act (Congress government was formed under Rajaji in Madras Presidency).
• The concept of 'Rule of Law' was formulated by A.V. Dicey. Indian Constitution Article 14 ensures this.

📌 KEY FOR TNPSC:

• 1935 Government of India Act: Paved the way for the establishment of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Federal Court.
• Uttiramerur Inscription: Parantaka I (919 - 921 AD).