The British Parliament passed the Government of India Act in August 1935. It remained the longest act ever enacted by the British Parliament until it was surpassed by the Greater London Authority Act of 1999. The Act was based on the recommendations and discussions of the following:
- The Report of the Simon Commission
- The Report of the All Parties Conference (Nehru Committee Report)
- The discussions of the three Round Table Conferences
- The White Paper (March 1933)
- The Joint Select Committee Report
- The Lothian Report, which determined the electoral provisions of the Act
The British Government was always worried about mass movements in India, especially due to post-World War events in the country. Although they succeeded in suppressing these movements, they wanted to weaken the nationalist movement through the divide-and-rule policy. They were aware that many in the Congress party and other political parties would support 'constitutional reform' and a limited political package for Indians, but many, mostly radicals, would oppose it. The Government of India Act, 1935, should also be seen in this perspective.
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