The correct option is (b).
Explanation
The evolution of legislative institutions in India during British rule was a gradual process marked by specific Acts that incrementally introduced Indian representation and legislative powers. However, these early legislatures were fundamentally different from the sovereign Parliament of independent India.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The right to discuss the budget was not prohibited until 1947. The Indian Councils Act, 1892 empowered the Legislative Councils to discuss the budget and address questions to the Executive, although they could not vote on it. The Indian Councils Act, 1909 further expanded these powers, allowing members to move resolutions on the budget.
- Statement 2 is Correct. The Government of India Act, 1909 (also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms) introduced the element of election to the Legislative Councils. While the election was indirect and the franchise was limited, it officially allowed for some elected representation in the colonial legislature.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. The colonial legislatures were not sovereign bodies. The Governor-General (Viceroy) retained significant veto powers, and the ultimate authority lay with the British Parliament. Furthermore, these institutions did not allow citizens to participate directly in decision-making; the franchise was extremely restricted based on property, tax, and education, and universal adult suffrage did not exist.
Key Takeaway:
The Indian Councils Act, 1892 granted the power to discuss the budget, while the Government of India Act, 1909 introduced the principle of election (indirectly) to the legislatures. Colonial legislatures lacked sovereignty and broad democratic participation.