Racial bitterness of the British was clearly seen in the passing of th...
The Vernacular Press Act was passed in 1878 during the viceroyalty of Lord Lytton. This act was aimed at curbing the freedom of the Indian-language press, which had become increasingly critical of British policies. The act allowed the government to censor reports and editorials in the vernacular press (newspapers and publications in Indian languages), which were seen as fueling anti-British sentiments.
- Racial Bitterness: The act did not apply to English-language newspapers, highlighting the racial bias and discrimination in its enforcement. It was a direct attempt to suppress the voices of educated Indians who were using the press to raise public awareness and criticize the British administration.
- The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 led to widespread anger and resentment among Indians, as it was seen as an infringement on free speech and an attempt to silence dissent.
Thus, the correct answer is D: 1878.
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Racial bitterness of the British was clearly seen in the passing of th...
**Answer:**
The Vernacular Press Act was passed in 1878, making option D the correct answer. This Act was a clear manifestation of the racial bitterness of the British towards the Indian population.
**Background:**
During the colonial period, the British sought to control and manipulate public opinion in India. The Vernacular Press Act was one such legislation that aimed to suppress the Indian press, which was seen as a powerful tool for mobilizing public opinion against British rule.
**Explanation:**
The passing of the Vernacular Press Act in 1878 can be understood through the following points:
1. **Racial Bitterness:** The British administration in India harbored a deep sense of racial superiority and resentment towards the Indian population. They considered themselves as the "civilizing" force and believed that they had the right to control and manipulate public opinion in India.
2. **Suppression of the Press:** The Indian press played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and providing a platform for dissent against British rule. This Act was a direct attempt to suppress the Indian press by imposing stringent regulations and restrictions.
3. **Gagging Public Opinion:** The Vernacular Press Act gave the colonial government the power to scrutinize and censor any content published in Indian-language newspapers. It required publishers to provide a security deposit and obtain a license, making it easier for the government to control and suppress dissenting voices.
4. **Targeting Vernacular Press:** The Act specifically targeted the vernacular press, which published newspapers in local Indian languages. The British believed that the vernacular press was more effective in reaching the masses and mobilizing public opinion against colonial rule. By targeting the vernacular press, the British sought to limit the dissemination of nationalist ideas and movements.
5. **Impact and Criticism:** The Vernacular Press Act faced significant criticism from Indian nationalists and intellectuals who saw it as a direct assault on the freedom of the press and the right to free speech. It further fueled anti-British sentiments and resistance movements, as Indians saw it as yet another oppressive measure by the colonial government.
In conclusion, the Vernacular Press Act was a clear manifestation of the racial bitterness of the British towards the Indian population. It aimed to suppress public opinion and control the narrative in India, allowing the colonial government to consolidate its power and maintain control over the Indian population.