Vernacular Press Act Explained

The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 was a significant piece of legislation enacted during India's colonial period. This act aimed to curb the growing influence and criticism of the Indian press, particularly newspapers published in Indian languages (vernacular languages).

Act Introduction Details

The Vernacular Press Act, often referred to as the 'gagging act', was introduced by the Viceroyalty of Lord Lytton. He served as the Viceroy of India from 1876 to 1880.

Reasoning for the Act

Lord Lytton's government felt that vernacular newspapers were often publishing seditious content and inciting anti-British sentiments. The Act provided the government with extensive powers, including:

• The power to impose pre-censorship on publications in vernacular languages.
• The ability to confiscate printing presses without judicial review if a newspaper was deemed to have published objectionable material.

This act was particularly controversial because it applied only to newspapers in Indian languages, exempting those published in English.

Conclusion

Therefore, the Vernacular Press Act (1878) was introduced by Lord Lytton.