The Imperial Legislative Council (ILC) was the legislature of British India from 1861 to 1947.

In 1861 it was renamed as Imperial Legislative Council and the strength was increased.

[citation needed] The five individuals appointed by the Indian Secretary or Sovereign headed the executive departments, while those appointed by the Governor-General debated and voted on legislation.

They were however empowered to discuss the annual financial statement under certain restrictions but could not vote on it.

The Governor-General nonetheless retained significant power over legislation.

The President of the Council of State was appointed by the Governor-General; the Central Legislative Assembly elected its own President, apart from the first, but the election required the Governor-General's approval.

Under the Indian Independence Act 1947, the Imperial Legislative Council and its houses were dissolved on 14 August 1947 and was replaced by the Constituent Assembly of India and the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan.