Understanding the Abolition of Sati Pratha

The question asks about the British Governor-General under whose tenure the practice of Sati was officially abolished. Sati was a historical practice found among some communities in India where a recently widowed woman would immolate herself, either voluntarily or forcibly, on her deceased husband's pyre.

The Role of the Governor-General in Abolishing Sati

Social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy actively campaigned against the practice of Sati, highlighting its inhuman nature and advocating for its legal prohibition. Their efforts, combined with the growing humanitarian concerns among some British officials, led to action being taken by the colonial government.

The Governor-General in charge during this crucial period of social reform was instrumental in enacting the necessary legislation to outlaw Sati.

Identifying the Correct Governor-General

Let's examine the options provided:

• Lord Auckland: Served as Governor-General from 1836 to 1842. While his tenure saw significant events, the abolition of Sati predates his term.
• Lord William Bentinck: Served as Governor-General of Bengal from 1828 to 1835, and the first Governor-General of India from 1833 to 1835. He is widely credited with implementing significant social reforms, including the abolition of Sati.
• Lord Ellenborough: Served as Governor-General from 1842 to 1844. His tenure came after the abolition of Sati.
• Lord Metcalfe: Served as acting Governor-General briefly in 1835-1836. His focus was largely on press freedom. The main abolition act occurred before his time.

It was during the Governor-Generalship of Lord William Bentinck that the landmark regulation prohibiting Sati was passed.

The Abolition Act

The practice of Sati was formally declared illegal and punishable by criminal courts through the Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829 (Regulation XVII). This regulation was extended to Madras and Bombay presidencies in 1830. Lord William Bentinck took this bold step despite potential opposition, driven by the reformist spirit and the persistent efforts of Indian reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy.

Therefore, the Sati Pratha was abolished under the Governor-Generalship of Lord William Bentinck.

Key Points on Sati Abolition

• Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy campaigned against Sati.
• Lord William Bentinck was the Governor-General.
• The abolition happened in 1829 through Regulation XVII.
• The practice was declared illegal and a criminal offense.

Revision Table: Governor-Generals and Reforms

Additional Information on Social Reforms in British India

The period under Lord William Bentinck and subsequent Governor-Generals saw several attempts at social reform, influenced by various factors including humanitarian ideals, Utilitarian philosophy, and pressure from Indian reformers.

• Suppression of Thuggee: Lord William Bentinck also played a key role in suppressing the organized gangs of robbers known as Thugs.
• English Education: The decision to make English the medium of instruction for higher education was taken during his time, based on Macaulay's Minutes.
• Other Reforms: Later reforms included efforts against female infanticide, the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act (1856 under Lord Dalhousie), and the Age of Consent Act (1891).

These reforms highlight a period of significant social and administrative changes initiated by the British administration, often in response to or in collaboration with Indian reform movements.