Dalhousie started the principle of........

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (1): The principle that Dalhousie started is known as the 'Doctrine of Lapse.' Lord Dalhousie, who served as the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856, is famously associated with this controversial policy. The Doctrine of Lapse was an annexation policy used by the British East India Company to expand its territorial control in India. According to this doctrine, if an Indian princely state's ruler died without a natural male heir, the state would not pass to an adopted heir, but would instead be annexed by the Company. This policy was based on the premise that the British paramountcy superseded the right of Indian rulers to adopt an heir. It significantly increased British territories and resources in India and was a major cause of discontent among Indian rulers and the populace, eventually contributing to the Revolt of 1857.

The incorrect option is (2) Together: The term "Together" does not refer to any specific policy or principle initiated by Lord Dalhousie or the British East India Company in the context of territorial annexation or administrative reforms. Dalhousie's policies were often divisive and aimed at consolidating British power rather than fostering unity or cooperation with Indian states. Therefore, this option is not relevant to the historical actions of Lord Dalhousie.

The incorrect option is (3) Separate: While the British administration, under various Governor-Generals, did implement policies that created divisions or separated certain communities or regions for administrative control, "Separate" itself is not the name of a principle or doctrine started by Dalhousie. His policies, particularly the Doctrine of Lapse, were about integrating states into British India, not keeping them separate from the British. Hence, this option does not accurately describe a policy associated with Dalhousie.

The incorrect option is (4) None of them: This option is incorrect because 'Lapse' is indeed a principle directly associated with Lord Dalhousie. The Doctrine of Lapse was a defining feature of his administration and had a profound impact on the political landscape of India. To choose "None of them" would be to disregard a significant historical policy enacted during his tenure.