The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 was proposed by Lord Lytton, the then Viceroy of India. This act was enacted during the British colonial rule in India and aimed at regulating the vernacular press in the country. In order to understand the significance of this act, let's delve into its background, provisions, and impact.

Background:
During the 19th century, the Indian press played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering nationalistic sentiments against British rule. Several newspapers in regional languages, known as the vernacular press, emerged and became a powerful tool for anti-colonial movements. The British government perceived these newspapers as a threat to their authority and decided to impose restrictions on their freedom.

Provisions of the Act:
1. Licensing: The Vernacular Press Act mandated that newspapers in Indian languages had to obtain a license from the government to operate legally. This gave the colonial authorities the power to control and censor the content published in these newspapers.
2. Security Deposits: Publishers were required to deposit a substantial amount as security with the government. This amount could be forfeited if the government believed that the newspaper had violated any rules or regulations.
3. Inspections and Penalties: The act empowered the government to conduct inspections of printing presses and seize printing equipment if there were any alleged violations. Penalties, including fines and imprisonment, were imposed on publishers and editors found guilty of publishing objectionable content.

Impact:
1. Censorship: The Vernacular Press Act provided a legal framework for the colonial government to censor and control the content published in vernacular newspapers. This led to self-censorship among publishers and editors, as they feared losing their licenses or facing penalties.
2. Suppression of Nationalistic Movements: The act was primarily aimed at stifling nationalist sentiments and curbing the growth of anti-colonial movements. By imposing strict regulations on the vernacular press, the British government sought to prevent the dissemination of ideas that challenged their rule.
3. Opposition and Criticism: The Vernacular Press Act faced strong opposition from Indian intellectuals, politicians, and the press itself. It was seen as a direct attack on freedom of speech and expression, leading to widespread protests and condemnation.
4. Repeal: Owing to the intense opposition and criticism, the act was eventually repealed in 1882. However, the impact of the act on the Indian press and the freedom of expression continued to influence subsequent legislations and policies.

Overall, the Vernacular Press Act of 1878, proposed by Lord Lytton, was a significant milestone in the history of press censorship in colonial India. It aimed to curtail the growing influence of regional language newspapers and suppress nationalist sentiments. However, it also sparked a spirited resistance and fueled the demand for press freedom in the country.