The Vernacular Press Act was repealed by __________.
Lord Ripon
Vernacular Press Act Repeal Explained
The Vernacular Press Act, a significant piece of legislation in British India, aimed to curb the freedom of the Indian press, particularly newspapers published in Indian languages (vernaculars). This act was enacted in 1878 during the Viceroyalty of Lord Lytton.
Vernacular Press Act Context
Lord Lytton's government introduced the Vernacular Press Act, 1878, fearing that vernacular newspapers were spreading seditious content and inciting anti-British sentiments. The Act empowered District Magistrates to impose censorship, confiscate printing presses, and seize paper supplies without judicial oversight if a newspaper published objectionable material. It was highly controversial as it differentiated between English and vernacular publications, leading to accusations of discriminatory press control.
Lord Ripon's Role in Repeal
The Vernacular Press Act faced strong opposition from various sections of Indian society and liberal British circles. When Lord Ripon took over as the Viceroy of India in 1880, one of his key policy decisions was to repeal this restrictive Act. Lord Ripon believed in fostering greater local self-government and believed that a free press was essential for political progress. Consequently, the Vernacular Press Act was repealed in 1882 by Lord Ripon.
Analysis of Options
Let's look at the options provided:
- Lord William Bentinck: He was the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835 and is known for social reforms like the abolition of Sati. He was not associated with the Vernacular Press Act.
- Lord Lytton: He was the Viceroy who enacted the Vernacular Press Act in 1878, not the one who repealed it.
- Gladstone: William Ewart Gladstone was a prominent British statesman and Prime Minister of the UK multiple times, but he was not the Viceroy responsible for repealing this specific Act in India.
- Lord Ripon: As Viceroy from 1880 to 1884, Lord Ripon is historically credited with repealing the Vernacular Press Act in 1882.
- None of these: This option is incorrect as Lord Ripon is the correct answer.
Therefore, the Vernacular Press Act was repealed by Lord Ripon.
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