Which of the following pairs is correct?
VerifiedAnswer: Chelmsford : Rowlatt Act
Explanation:
The pair Chelmsford : Rowlatt Act is indeed correct and represents a significant connection in Indian colonial history. Lord Chelmsford served as the Viceroy of India from 1916 to 1921, during one of the most turbulent periods of British rule in India.
The Rowlatt Act was passed in March 1919 during Lord Chelmsford's tenure as Viceroy. This controversial legislation was officially known as the Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act of 1919. The Act was based on the recommendations of the Rowlatt Committee, headed by Sir Sidney Rowlatt, which was established to investigate revolutionary activities in India.
The Rowlatt Act gave the British government extraordinary powers to deal with revolutionary activities. It allowed the government to imprison suspects without trial for up to two years and enabled trials of political cases without juries. The Act also permitted provincial governments to search places and arrest people without warrants.
This draconian legislation faced massive opposition from Indian leaders and the general public. Mahatma Gandhi called it the "Black Act" and organized the first All-India hartal (strike) against it on April 6, 1919. The widespread protests against the Rowlatt Act led to tragic events, including the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar.
Lord Chelmsford's administration was also notable for implementing the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919, which introduced the system of dyarchy in Indian provinces. However, the Rowlatt Act overshadowed these reforms and became a symbol of British oppression, significantly contributing to the growth of the Indian independence movement.
The connection between Chelmsford and the Rowlatt Act is historically accurate because it was during his viceroyalty that this repressive legislation was enacted, making this pair a correct match in the context of Indian colonial history.
