The nature of franchise and elections in Goa during the nineteenth century

Abstract

One of the most endearing reforms conceded to Goa and other overseas colonies of Portugal during the constitutional period as a consequence of the liberal changes in 1820 in Portugal was the system of representation at various levels of administration. A study of elections shows that the electoral system and the nature of franchise had evolved over several decades during the nineteenth century. In fact, the system of election and the representation of people during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries constitute unique features in the administration of colonial Goa. Interestingly, colonial Goa had experienced representative government much before British India. The present paper is an attempt to critically examine the nature of enfranchisement and election that prevailed in Goa against the background of the political system in Portugal and the Portuguese legislations in Goa. A study of the system of election followed in Goa reflects the political trends in Portugal and Europe. It also shows the colonial character of the Portuguese rule in Goa.