Indian History & Post-Independence, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q.4. To what extent was the Revolt of 1857 a national uprising? Evaluate in light of its causes, participation, and outcomes. (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
The Revolt of 1857 was a major rebellion against British rule in India. It was driven by various political, economic, and social reasons and marked the first large-scale resistance to colonial authority. As V.D. Savarkar stated, “The revolt was a national war of independence, not just a sepoy mutiny.”
Body
Causes of the Revolt
- Military Grievances: Discontent among sepoys over pay, promotion, and use of greased cartridges offended religious sentiments. Example: The Enfield rifle cartridge controversy sparked immediate unrest.
- 2. Economic Exploitation: Heavy taxation, land alienation, and disruption of traditional economies caused widespread distress. Example: The zamindari system and British revenue policies impoverished peasants.
- Political Annexations: Doctrine of lapse and annexation of princely states like Awadh bred resentment. Example: Deposition of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah fueled regional anger.
- Social and Religious Factors: Missionary activities and cultural interference threatened traditional beliefs. Example: Fear of forced conversions alarmed many communities.
Participation and Spread
- Military Participation: Primarily led by Indian sepoys in the Bengal Army but included some cavalry and infantry units. Example: Revolts broke out simultaneously in Meerut, Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow.
- Princely States and Peasants: Some rulers and peasants joined the revolt while others remained loyal to the British. Example: Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and Tantia Tope became iconic leaders.
- Regional Variation: The revolt had strongholds in North and Central India but was limited in South and East India. Example: Punjab and Madras presidencies saw little rebellion.
Outcomes and Legacy
- Failure to Achieve Immediate Independence: The revolt was suppressed within a year. Example: British reasserted control after heavy military campaigns.
- End of East India Company Rule: The British Crown took direct control of India in 1858. Example: The Government of India Act (1858) established the British Raj.
- Military and Administrative Reforms: Reorganisation of the army and greater inclusion of loyal communities. Example: Increased recruitment from Sikhs and Gurkhas.
- Political Awakening: The revolt sowed seeds of nationalism and inspired future freedom struggles. Example: Later nationalist leaders drew inspiration from 1857.
Evaluation
- Although the revolt lacked a unified leadership and nationwide participation, it expressed a common resentment against British rule across diverse sections of Indian society.
- Its symbolic value as a collective defiance marked the beginning of India’s nationalist consciousness, making it a precursor to later pan-Indian movements.
Conclusion
While the Revolt of 1857 was not uniformly national in participation, its causes, scale, and legacy qualify it as a significant national uprising. As Bipin Chandra argues, “It was the first collective expression of Indian resistance against British rule.”