Q1. What is history of India and Indian national movement?

Ans - Ancient India, spanning from approximately 12000 BC to AD 750, is a tapestry woven with
remarkable developments and civilizations. During its earliest phases, nomadic hunter-gatherer
communities transitioned to settled agricultural life, giving rise to the fertile Indus Valley
Civilization around 3300 BC. This advanced urban society flourished with organized cities like
Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, showcasing sophisticated drainage systems and intricate art. In the
Vedic period, roughly from 1500 BC to 600 BC, sacred texts known as the Vedas were composed,
reflecting the spiritual and philosophical contemplations of the time. The emergence of early
Hinduism and the establishment of the caste system also occurred during this period. The Mauryan
Empire, from 322 BC to 185 BC, marked a significant political consolidation under Chandragupta
Maurya and Ashoka. Ashoka’s advocacy for non-violence and spread of Buddhism impacted not
only India but also neighbouring regions.

Indus Valley Civilization (3300 BCE – 1300 BCE):

The Indus Valley Civilization was an ancient urban society known for its advanced city planning, intricate
drainage systems, and remarkable trade networks across the Indian subcontinent.

Iconic cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa offer a glimpse into the organized lives of ancient Indians.

Vedic Period (1500 BCE – 600 BCE):

A time of intellectual ferment where the sacred texts known as Vedas were composed. These texts,
comprising hymns, rituals, and philosophies, laid the foundation for Hinduism and offered insights into
the society’s beliefs, rituals, and practices.

Mauryan Empire (322 BCE – 185 BCE):

The rise of the Mauryan Empire under the leadership of Chandragupta Maurya marked a pivotal moment
in Indian history. The reign of Emperor Ashoka, known for his conversion to Buddhism and advocacy of
non-violence, left an enduring legacy.

Gupta Dynasty (320 CE – 550 CE):

Often referred to as the “Golden Age” of India, the Gupta Dynasty witnessed remarkable achievements in
various fields such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and art. The decimal numeral system and the
concept of zero originated during this period.

Medieval India:
Medieval India, spanning from approximately AD 750 to AD 1600, is a period characterized by dynamic
shifts in politics, culture, and societal structures. It witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the fusion of
diverse cultures, and the establishment of significant trade networks.
The early medieval period saw the emergence of the Rajput kingdoms, with regional rulers asserting their
authority across northern India. This era was marked by chivalry, valor, and the patronage of art and
literature.

The Delhi Sultanate, established in the 13th century, brought Islamic rulers to India. This marked a period
of cultural amalgamation, where Persian influences blended with indigenous traditions. Magnificent
architectural wonders such as the Qutub Minar and the Alai Darwaza were built during this time.

The Mughal Empire, from the 16th to the 18th century, was a defining feature of medieval India. Founded
by Babur, the Mughals brought a unique blend of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian cultures. The reigns
of Akbar, known for religious tolerance and administrative reforms, and Shah Jahan, who built the iconic
Taj Mahal, are particularly noteworthy.

The medieval period also witnessed artistic achievements in music, literature, and painting. Classical
Indian music evolved during this time, with the development of the Hindustani and Carnatic traditions.
Literature like the poetry of Amir Khusrau and the epic tales of Tulsidas added to the cultural richness.

However, this era was not without challenges. The invasions of Central Asian powers, regional conflicts,
and power struggles created a landscape of political complexities.

In essence, medieval India stands as a testament to the interplay of diverse cultures, the architectural
marvels of different dynasties, and the artistic and intellectual achievements that continue to shape the
nation’s identity.

Delhi Sultanate (1206 CE – 1526 CE):

The arrival of Muslim rulers in Delhi ushered in a new era of architecture, culture, and governance.
Notable dynasties like the Ghurids and the Mughals left their mark on India’s history through grand
monuments and intricate art.

Mughal Empire (1526 CE – 1857 CE):

The Mughal dynasty, founded by Babur, brought with it a fusion of Persian and Indian cultures. The
empire reached its zenith under Akbar, whose policies emphasized religious tolerance and cultural
integration. The architectural marvels of this era, including the Taj Mahal, continue to captivate the
world.

Modern India:
From the 1600s to 1947, Modern India experienced profound changes that shaped its
course.The arrival of the British East India Company marked a significant shift, as trade evolved
into colonization, resulting in the East India Company’s dominance over Indian territories. The
struggle for independence gained momentum in the late 19th century, with leaders like
Mahatma Gandhi employing nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience to challenge British
rule. The 20th century saw India’s unwavering pursuit of self-rule, culminating in its hard-won
independence in 1947. However, this period was also marked by the challenging phenomenon
of partition, which led to the division of the subcontinent into India and Pakistan, causing
widespread displacement and communal tensions. Despite these trials, the era set the stage for
India’s emergence as a sovereign nation and its subsequent endeavours in nation-building,
democracy, and development.

British East India Company (1600 CE – 1858 CE)

The East India Company’s increasing control over trade led to its dominance over Indian
territories. This period marked the colonization of India and the gradual erosion of indigenous
governance structures.

Indian National Movement (1857 – 1947):

The Indian National Movement was a pivotal period in India’s history marked by a determined struggle
for independence from British colonial rule. Spanning the late 19th century to 1947, the movement
encompassed a spectrum of approaches, from moderate constitutional reforms to more radical demands
for complete self-governance. Visionary leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas
Chandra Bose spearheaded the movement, advocating nonviolent protests, civil disobedience, and mass
mobilization. Iconic events like the Salt March and Quit India Movement symbolized the unity and
resilience of the Indian people. The movement’s culmination in 1947 led to the end of British colonialism,
granting India its hard-fought freedom and shaping its trajectory as a sovereign nation committed to
democracy and social justice.

Independence and Partition (1947):

The watershed moment of India’s history saw the nation gain independence from colonial rule.
However, the partition of India and Pakistan led to a tragic displacement of people and communal
violence.

India Since Independence:

Since gaining independence in 1947, India has embarked on a dynamic journey of nation-building and
progress. The adoption of a democratic constitution laid the groundwork for a diverse and inclusive
society, emphasizing fundamental rights and principles of governance.The post-independence era saw
India engaging in several conflicts with Pakistan, influencing regional dynamics and geopolitics.In 1991,
the nation undertook economic liberalization, opening its doors to global markets and initiating
transformative reforms that spurred economic growth and innovation. Despite these advancements,
challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental concerns persist.India’s modern story is one of
resilience and adaptation, as it navigates a complex landscape while cherishing its rich cultural heritage,
diverse traditions, and aspirations for a brighter future.

Constitution and Democracy (1947 – present):

India adopted a democratic constitution that guaranteed fundamental rights and promoted social justice.
This marked the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s history.

Q2. What are the historical events of freedom movement of India from 1857 to 1947?

Ans - The Indian Independence Movement was a series of historic events in South Asia with the
ultimate aim of ending British colonial rule. It lasted until 1947, when the Indian Independence Act
1947 was passed.

The first nationalistic movement for Indian independence emerged in the Province of Bengal. It later took
root in the newly formed Indian National Congress with prominent moderate leaders seeking the right to
appear for Indian Civil Service examinations in British India, as well as more economic rights for natives.
The first half of the 20th century saw a more radical approach towards self-rule.

The stages of the independence struggle in the 1920s were characterised by the leadership of Mahatma
Gandhi and Congress' adoption of Gandhi's policy of non-violence and civil disobedience. Some of the
leading followers of Gandhi's ideology were Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, Abdul Ghaffar
Khan, Maulana Azad, and others. Intellectuals such as Rabindranath Tagore, Subramania Bharati,
and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay spread patriotic awareness. Female leaders like Sarojini
Naidu, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, Pritilata Waddedar, and Kasturba Gandhi promoted the emancipation of
Indian women and their participation in the freedom struggle.

Few leaders followed a more violent approach, which became especially popular after the Rowlatt Act,
which permitted indefinite detention. The Act sparked protests across India, especially in the Punjab
province, where they were violently suppressed in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
The Indian independence movement was in constant ideological evolution. Essentially anti-colonial, it
was supplemented by visions of independent, economic development with a secular, democratic,
republican, and civil-libertarian political structure. After the 1930s, the movement took on a strong
socialist orientation. It culminated in the Indian Independence Act 1947, which
ended Crown suzerainty and partitioned British India into the Dominion of India and the Dominion of
Pakistan.

India remained a Crown Dominion until 26 January 1950, when the Constitution of India established the
Republic of India. Pakistan remained a dominion until 1956 when it adopted its first constitution. In
1971, East Pakistan declared its own independence as Bangladesh

The first European to reach India via the Atlantic Ocean was the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama,
who reached Calicut in 1498 in search of spice. Just over a century later, the Dutch and English
established trading outposts on the Indian subcontinent, with the first English trading post set up
at Surat in 1613.

Over the next two centuries, the British defeated the Portuguese and Dutch but remained in conflict with
the French. The decline of the Mughal Empire in the first half of the eighteenth century allowed the
British to establish a foothold in Indian politics.[4] During the Battle of Plassey, the East India Company's
Army defeated Siraj ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, and the company established itself as a major
player in Indian affairs. After the Battle of Buxar of 1764, it gained administrative rights
over Bengal, Bihar and the Midnapur part of Odisha.

After the defeat of Tipu Sultan, most of southern India came either under the company's direct rule, or
under its indirect political control in a subsidiary alliance. The Company subsequently seized control of
regions ruled by the Maratha Empire, after defeating them in a series of wars. Much of Punjab was
annexed in the year 1849, after the defeat of Sikh armies in the First (1845–46) and Second (1848–49)
Anglo-Sikh Wars.

Causes of Indian National Movement: Influences and Catalysts

The rise of Indian nationalism was a gradual process influenced by various interconnected factors. The
following are the causes and circumstances that contributed to the growth of the Indian national
movement:
 1. Socio-Religious Reforms: In the 19th century, a wave of socio-religious reform movements
swept across India. Visionaries like Jyotiba Phule, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, and Ishwar Chandra
Vidyasagar played pivotal roles in these movements, tirelessly working to eradicate religious and
social injustices. These reformers championed causes such as the abolition of Sati and the
promotion of women’s education, fostering a sense of social justice and equality.
2. Rise in Western Education: The introduction of Western education, particularly with Lord
Macaulay’s “Minute on Indian Education” in 1835, aimed to create an educated class of Indians
loyal to British rule. However, Indians harnessed the power of English education to unite various
regions and disseminate ideas of freedom, democracy, and equality that they encountered through
exposure to Western thinkers and philosophers.
3. Revival of Vernacular Languages: Alongside the rise of English education, Indians recognized
the significance of their native languages. Vernacular languages gained popularity, and prominent
writers began expressing nationalist ideas in these languages. This ensured that the ideals of
freedom and liberty reached a broader audience in a language they understood, fostering unity.
4. Effects of British Economic Policies: British economic policies during the colonial era had
devastating consequences for India, particularly for peasants and farmers. These policies led to
widespread poverty, heavy debts, and economic hardships. The suffering of the masses due to
British economic exploitation fueled resentment and contributed to the mobilization of nationalist
sentiments.
5. Aftermath of the Revolt of 1857: The Revolt of 1857, often referred to as the First War of
Independence, was a significant uprising against British rule. Despite its brutal suppression by the
British, the revolt left a lasting impact. It deepened the sense of resentment among Indians and
heightened racial tensions between the Indian populace and the British colonial rulers. The events
of 1857 served as a catalyst for the subsequent rise of nationalism in India.

Q3. What are the three phases of the history of the Indian national movement?

Ans –

Moderate Phase – Features

 During the Moderate Phase, which took place between 1885 and 1905, the Early Nationalists, commonly
known as the Moderates, emerged as a significant group of political leaders in India, marking the
beginning of the organized national movement. Two prominent moderate leaders were Pherozeshah
Mehta and Dadabhai Naoroji.
 The Moderates consisted primarily of educated middle-class professionals, including lawyers, teachers,
and government officials, many of whom had received their education in England. Their political
activities followed a constitutional approach, focusing on lawful agitation and demonstrating a gradual
and orderly political progression.

 The Moderates held the belief that the British authorities genuinely intended to be fair to the Indians but
lacked awareness of the actual conditions in India. They believed that by shaping public opinion within
the country and presenting public demands through resolutions, petitions, meetings, and other means, the
authorities would gradually meet these demands.

 To achieve their objectives, the Moderates employed a two-pronged strategy. Firstly, they aimed to create
strong public opinion to awaken consciousness and foster national spirit among the people. They also
worked towards educating and uniting individuals on common political issues. Secondly, they sought to
persuade the British government and public opinion to implement reforms in India in line with the
nationalist agenda.

 In 1899, a British committee of the Indian National Congress was established in London, serving as its
representative body. Dadabhai Naoroji played a significant role in advocating for India’s cause on
international platforms, dedicating a considerable portion of his life and resources to this endeavor.

 Although there were plans to hold a session of the Indian National Congress in London in 1892, the
proposal was postponed due to the British elections in 1891 and was subsequently not revived.

Moderate Phase – Objectives

 The objectives of the Moderate Phase during the late 19th and early 20th century in India were as follows:

 Establish a democratic, nationalist movement: The Moderates aimed to create a movement that would
advocate for the rights and aspirations of the Indian people within a democratic framework.
 Politicize and politically educate people: The Moderates sought to raise political awareness among the
Indian population, particularly the educated middle class, and educate them about their rights and
responsibilities as citizens.
 Establish a movement’s headquarters: The Moderates aimed to establish a central headquarters or
organization that would serve as a platform for coordinating and directing nationalist activities throughout
the country.
 Promote friendly relations among nationalist political workers: The Moderates emphasized the
importance of fostering friendly relationships and cooperation among nationalist political workers from
different regions of India, to create a unified front against colonial rule.
 Create and spread an anti-colonial nationalist ideology: The Moderates aimed to develop and propagate
an ideology that emphasized the need to oppose and challenge British colonial rule in India.
 Formulate and present popular demands to the government: The Moderates believed in formulating
popular demands related to economic and political reforms, which would serve as a rallying point to unite
the Indian people behind a common agenda. These demands would be presented to the government for
consideration.

 Develop and consolidate a sense of national unity: The Moderates worked towards fostering a sense of
national unity among people of all religions, castes, and provinces in India. They aimed to transcend
divisions and create a shared identity based on the idea of Indian nationhood.

 Promote and cultivate Indian nationhood with care: The Moderates recognized the importance of
nurturing and preserving the concept of Indian nationhood, paying attention to its development and
ensuring its growth thoughtfully and deliberately.

Moderate Phase – Important Leaders

 The Moderate Phase of the Indian national movement was characterized by the leadership of several
prominent figures. Here are some important leaders from that period:

 Dadabhai Naoroji: Often referred to as the “Grand Old Man of India,” he was the first Indian to be
elected to the British House of Commons. Naoroji authored the influential book ‘Poverty and Un-British
Rule in India,’ which highlighted the economic drain caused by British policies in India.
 Womesh Chandra Bonnerjee: He served as the first president of the Indian National Congress (INC).
Bonnerjee, a lawyer by profession, was also the first Indian to serve as Standing Counsel.
 G. Subramania Aiyer: He founded the newspaper ‘The Hindu,’ through which he criticized British
imperialism. Aiyer also established the Tamil newspaper ‘Swadesamitran’ and was a co-founder of the
Madras Mahajana Sabha.
 Gopal Krishna Gokhale: Gokhale was an influential leader and political mentor to Mahatma Gandhi. He
founded the Servants of India Society, which aimed to promote social and political reforms in the country.
 Surendranath Banerjee: Known as ‘Rashtraguru’ and ‘Indian Burke,’ Banerjee founded the Indian
National Association, which later merged with the INC. He was also associated with the Bengalee
newspaper. Banerjee faced racial discrimination when he was fired from the Indian Civil Service.
 Other notable moderate leaders include Rash Behari Ghosh, R.C. Dutt, M.G. Ranade, Pherozeshah
Mehta, P.R. Naidu, Madan Mohan Malaviya, P. Ananda Charlu, and William Wedderburn. These
leaders played significant roles in advocating for India’s rights and pushing for political and social
reforms during the Moderate Phase.
The method used by the Moderates
 The Moderates employed several methods to advance their objectives during the Moderate Phase of the
Indian national movement. Here are some of the key approaches they used:
 Reform Demands and Criticism: The Moderates articulated reform demands and openly criticized
government policies. They highlighted the need for social, economic, and political reforms in India.
 Emphasis on Patience and Reconciliation: The Moderates believed in peaceful and non-violent
methods. They prioritized patience and reconciliation over violent confrontations, seeking to resolve
issues through dialogue and negotiation.
 Constitutional and Peaceful Means: The Moderates relied on constitutional and peaceful means to
achieve their goals. They adhered to legal frameworks and advocated for reforms within the existing
system.
 Education and Political Consciousness: The Moderates placed great emphasis on educating people and
raising their political consciousness. They aimed to inform and engage the public on matters of national
importance, fostering a sense of political awareness among the masses.
 Formation of Public Opinion: The Moderates organized lectures and discussions in different parts of
India and England to shape public opinion. They utilized platforms to generate awareness and garner
support for their cause. The publication of the weekly journal ‘India’ aimed at disseminating information
among the British people.
 Criticism through Newspapers and Journals: The Moderates utilized various newspapers and journals
to criticize government policies and advocate for reforms. Publications like the Bengali newspaper,
Bombay Chronicle, Hindustan Times, Induprakash, Rast Goftar, and the weekly journal India were
utilized to voice their concerns and perspectives.
 Advocacy for Government Investigation: The Moderates called for government investigations into the
problems faced by the people and sought viable solutions to address these issues.
 Organizing Meetings and Discussions: The Moderates regularly held meetings and discussions to
address social, economic, and cultural issues. These gatherings took place in various locations, including
England, Mumbai, Allahabad, Pune, and Calcutta, among others.
 By employing these methods, the Moderates sought to create awareness, mobilize public support, and
influence policy-making in their pursuit of reform and progress for

Contributions of Moderate Nationalists

 Economic Critique of British Imperialism
 The Moderate Nationalists made significant contributions to the Indian national movement. Here are
some key areas where they made their mark:

 Economic Critique of British Imperialism: Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, R.C. Dutt, Dinshaw Wacha,
and others critically examined the political economy of British rule in India. They put forth the “drain
theory,” which explained the British exploitation of India’s resources and advocated against the
conversion of India’s self-sufficient economy into a colonial one. They created public opinion that British
 rule was the primary cause of India’s poverty and economic backwardness. They called for an end to
economic dependence on Britain, the development of an independent Indian economy, and the
involvement of Indian capital and enterprise.
 Demands for Economic Reforms: The Moderate Nationalists demanded various economic reforms to
alleviate the deprivation in India. They called for a reduction in inland revenue, the abolition of the salt
tax, better working conditions for plantation laborers, and a decrease in military spending, among other
measures. Their economic demands aimed to address the exploitative practices and policies of British
imperialism in India.
 Advocacy for Constitutional Reforms: Despite limited official power, the Moderate Nationalists
actively participated in India’s legislative councils, which were established by the Indian Councils Act
(1861). They used these platforms to push for constitutional reforms and to advance the cause of the
national movement. While the councils were initially designed as impotent bodies, the work done by the
nationalists within them helped in the growth of the national movement.
 Council Expansion and Reform: From 1885 to 1892, the Moderate Nationalists focused on demands for
council expansion and reform. They called for greater participation of Indians in the councils and sought
more powers for the councils, particularly in terms of control over finances. These demands aimed to
increase Indian representation and influence in the decision-making processes of the colonial
administration.
 By highlighting the economic exploitation under British rule, advocating for economic reforms, and
pushing for constitutional changes, the Moderate Nationalists played a crucial role in shaping public
opinion, mobilizing support, and laying the foundation for the broader Indian national movement.

Campaign for General Administrative Reform

 The Moderate Nationalists campaigned for general administrative reform in India, advocating for various
changes and improvements. Here are the key grounds on which they campaigned:

 Indianisation of Government Service: The Moderates argued for the inclusion of Indians in government
services. They highlighted the economic benefits of employing Indians, as British civil servants received
high salaries and remitted a significant portion of their earnings out of India, leading to an economic drain
on national resources. They also emphasized the political and moral aspects, arguing that excluding
Indians from positions of power was discriminatory and unjust.
 Separation of Judicial and Executive Powers: The Moderates criticized the existing system where the
judicial and executive powers were not separated. They advocated for the separation of these powers to
ensure a more efficient and impartial administration of justice.
 Criticism of Bureaucracy and Judicial System: The Moderates voiced concerns about the oppressive and
tyrannical nature of the bureaucracy. They highlighted the bureaucratic inefficiencies and the time-
 consuming judicial system, calling for reforms to make these systems more responsive, transparent, and
accessible.

 Opposition to Aggressive Foreign Policy: The Moderates criticized the aggressive foreign policy of the
British government, which resulted in actions such as the annexation of Burma, the invasion of
Afghanistan, and the suppression of tribals in the North West. They argued for a more restrained and just
approach to dealing with foreign affairs.

 Increased Spending on Welfare and Development: The Moderates advocated for increased government
spending on welfare measures such as health and sanitation, education (particularly elementary and
technical education), irrigation works, agricultural improvements, and the establishment of agricultural
banks for cultivators. They emphasized the need to prioritize social and economic development to
improve the conditions of the Indian population.

 Protection of Indian Laborers in British Colonies: The Moderates raised concerns about the mistreatment
and racial discrimination faced by Indian laborers in other British colonies. They called for better
treatment and protection of the rights of Indian laborers, highlighting the need for fair and just treatment
regardless of their location.

 Through their campaign for general administrative reform, the Moderate Nationalists aimed to address
systemic issues, improve governance, and protect the interests and well-being of the Indian population.

Q4. Who started Indian national movement?

Ans –

The movement was initially introduced on August 31, 1920, when the Khilafat Committee began
a campaign of non-cooperation. The Indian National Congress (INC), led by Mahatma Gandhi, began the
Non-Cooperation Movement on September 5, 1920. The Indian Independence Movement was a series
of historic events in South Asia with the ultimate aim of ending British colonial rule. It lasted until 1947,
when the Indian Independence Act 1947 was passed.

The first nationalistic movement for Indian independence emerged in the Province of Bengal. It
later took root in the newly formed Indian National Congress with prominent moderate leaders seeking
the right to appear for Indian Civil Service examinations in British India, as well as more economic rights
for natives. The first half of the 20th century saw a more radical approach towards self-rule.
 The stages of the independence struggle in the 1920s were characterised by the leadership
of Mahatma Gandhi and Congress' adoption of Gandhi's policy of non-violence and civil disobedience.
Some of the leading followers of Gandhi's ideology were Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, Abdul
Ghaffar Khan, Maulana Azad, and others. Intellectuals such as Rabindranath Tagore, Subramania Bharati,
and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay spread patriotic awareness. Female leaders like Sarojini
Naidu, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, Pritilata Waddedar, and Kasturba Gandhi promoted the emancipation of
Indian women and their participation in the freedom struggle. Few leaders followed a more violent
approach, which became especially popular after the Rowlatt Act, which permitted indefinite detention.
The Act sparked protests across India, especially in the Punjab province, where they were violently
suppressed in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

The Indian independence movement was in constant ideological evolution. Essentially anti-
colonial, it was supplemented by visions of independent, economic development with a secular,
democratic, republican, and civil-libertarian political structure. After the 1930s, the movement took on a
strong socialist orientation. It culminated in the Indian Independence Act 1947, which
ended Crown suzerainty and partitioned British India into the Dominion of India and the Dominion of
Pakistan.

India remained a Crown Dominion until 26 January 1950, when the Constitution of
India established the Republic of India. Pakistan remained a dominion until 1956 when it adopted its first
constitution. In 1971, East Pakistan declared its own independence as Bangladesh.

Q5. Why were people dissatisfied with British rule in the 1870s and 1880s?

Ans - Some of the reasons for dissatisfaction with British rule in the 1870s and 1880s are as

follows:The Arms Act was passed in 1878. This Act disallowed Indians from possessing arms.The

Vernacular Press Act was passed in 1878. This Act empowered the government to confiscate the assets of

newspapers including their printing presses if the newspaper published anything “objectionable”.The

government tried to introduce the Ilbert Bill in 1883. The bill made provisions for trial of British or

European persons by Indians. Thus the Ilbert Bill sought equality between British and Indian judges in

the country. But the whites opposed the Bill and forced the government to withdraw it.
The people were dissatisfied with British rule in the 1870s and 1880s due to following reasons:

i. The Arms Act was passed in 1878, disallowing Indians from possessing arms.

ii. In the same year the Vernacular Press Act was also enacted in an effort to silence those who were critical

of the government. The Act allowed the government to confiscate the assets of news- papers published

anything that was found objectionable The people were dissatisfied with British rule in the 1870s and

1880s due to following reasons:

iii. The Arms Act was passed in 1878, disallowing Indians from possessing arms.

iv. In the same year the Vernacular Press Act was also enacted in an effort to silence those who were critical

of the government. The Act allowed the government to confiscate the assets of news- papers published

anything that was found objectionable