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.
Similar Questions
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Important Questions from Viceroy and Governor
Which Governor General of Bengal underwent impeachment proceedings in the British Parliament?
Consider the following statements related to Wellesley's administration:
1) In the six years of Wellesley's administration, the army accounted for 42.5 percent of the Company's total expenditure.
2) Wellesley's administrative measures were restricted to the affairs of the Company and had nothing to do with the commercial and military affairs of the Indian ruling families.
Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct?Who among the following introduced the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793?
Soon after the formation of Indian National Congress, the British became suspicious of nationalists. Who among the following called Congress representing only the elite --'a microscopic minority'?
The arms Act which disallowed Indians from having arms was passed in ______.
