The 1857 revolution was the first nationalist movement by Indians against foreign rule which played crucial role in determining British policies towards Colonial India for next 90 years. British govt. now focused more on the consolidation of their empire instead of further expanding it. It is considered a water-shed which seperates an age of ill-considered reform, followed by an age of iron conservatism.
The change in British Policy towards colonial India can be explained as follows:
- Transfer of administration to British crown: Fear of further revolution brought India under direct Paramountancy of British Crown abolishing rule of the East India Company.
- Changes in military administration: Attempts were made to break the unity of regiments by accommodating soldiers from different communities in a regiment and they hugely increased the military expenditure at the cost of socio-economic development.
- Policy of divide and rule: Introduction of Caste based census, separate electorates later were evolved as per British Divide and Rule policy so as to prevent nationalism. For ex. creation of Martial and non martial class in army.
- Some sensitivity in policy making: Indians started being inducted towards political participation through Indian Council Act of 1861.This implied greater sensitivity in policy making.
- Abolition of Policy of annexation: The landmark policy of Dalhousie to annex Indian subcontinent territories for colonial expansion was abandoned (Doctrine of Lapse)as princely state were given autonomy with acceptance of British Paramountancy.
- Support to Zamindars:Zamindars, who were earlier victims of British land revenue policies, were restored with their lands and rights for their loyalty. This also slowly led to rising middle class.
- Carrot and stick scheme:
Cycles of Mild Repression – Incentives – Suppression were utilised to control rising demands of Indians. - Attitude of non-interference in social & religious issues: British support of social reforms was major cause of 1857 uprising. Hence, British adopted itself out from playing any role in reform.
- Development of Railway & Communication: In order to consolidate its empire, British developed railway and communication so as to ensure its reach economically, politically, military in every corner of India.
- Restriction of press:Vernacular Press act 1858 was enacted to discourage press in Indian languages.
- Policy of neglect of Higher Education: Contrary to earlier position, higher education and intellectuals were abhorred as they were seen as being instrument of modern nationalism.
Although1857 revolt wasn’t successful in its objective it is the watershed moment which greatly influenced British policies towards colonial India for next 90 years.
