Which of the following statements is/are correct in the context of the Government of India Act of 1858?
I. The Act is also called an ‘Act of Good Governance.’
II. The power to control the Indian Territory was vested in the Queen.

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• The Government of India Act 1858 is also referred to as an 'Act of Good Governance.' This terminology reflects the British aim to introduce reforms for better administration following the 1857 revolt.
• The Act transferred the powers of the East India Company to the British Crown, thereby vesting control of Indian territories directly in the Queen.
• The Act led to the establishment of the office of the Secretary of State for India, who was responsible for overseeing Indian affairs.
• It marked the end of the East India Company's rule and the beginning of direct British governance in India.
• The Governor-General of India was re-designated as the Viceroy, symbolizing the Crown's direct control over India.

Additional Information

• Revolt of 1857: Also known as the First War of Indian Independence, it was a major uprising against the British East India Company.
• East India Company: A British trading company that controlled large parts of India before the Government of India Act 1858.
• Secretary of State for India: A British cabinet position established to manage Indian affairs post-1858.
• Viceroy: The highest official in British India, representing the Crown.
• Queen Victoria's Proclamation: A declaration made in 1858, promising improvements in governance and fair treatment of Indian subjects.