The Criminal Tribes Act was a controversial legislation passed in India during British colonial rule. It classified certain communities as "Criminal Tribes" and imposed strict regulations and surveillance on them.
The correct answer to the question is B: 1871.
Here is a detailed explanation of the Criminal Tribes Act and its historical context:
Background:
- During the 19th century, the British colonial administration in India faced challenges in maintaining law and order.
- They believed that certain communities, often nomadic or semi-nomadic in nature, were prone to criminal activities.
- The British authorities sought to control and monitor these communities through legislation.
The Criminal Tribes Act:
- The Criminal Tribes Act was first enacted in 1871.
- It initially applied to a few specific communities, such as the Bediya and the Banjara tribes.
- The Act labeled these communities as "Criminal Tribes" and subjected them to strict surveillance and restrictions.
- The Act required members of these communities to report to the authorities regularly and obtain a license to engage in certain occupations.
- Violators of the Act were subjected to harsh punishments, including imprisonment and forced labor.
Expansion and Amendments:
- Over the years, the scope of the Criminal Tribes Act expanded, and more communities were included under its purview.
- In 1911, the Act was made applicable to over 160 communities across different regions of India.
- The Act was further amended in 1924, giving the authorities even more power to control and regulate the designated "Criminal Tribes."
Controversies and Abolition:
- The Criminal Tribes Act was highly controversial and faced criticism from various quarters.
- Many argued that the Act stigmatized entire communities based on their caste or occupation, leading to their marginalization and discrimination.
- The Act also perpetuated stereotypes and prejudices against these communities.
- Over time, there were movements and protests against the Act, advocating for its abolition.
- Finally, in 1949, after India gained independence, the Criminal Tribes Act was repealed, and the communities previously classified as "Criminal Tribes" were denotified.
In conclusion, the Criminal Tribes Act was passed in 1871 during British colonial rule in India. It classified certain communities as "Criminal Tribes" and imposed strict regulations and surveillance on them. The Act was highly controversial and faced criticism for its stigmatization and marginalization of these communities. It was finally repealed in 1949 after India gained independence.