UPSC Prelims 2013 · Question 31 of 99
UPSC Prelims 2013 question on Ilbert Bill
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2013
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectModern History
- TopicBritish Expansion in India
- DifficultyEasy
- TypeDirect
The Ilbert Bill controversy was related to the:
Show answer
Answer: C. Removal of disqualifications imposed on the Indian magistrates with regard to the trial of the Europeans
Verdict
Correct Answer: Removal of disqualifications imposed on Indian magistrates with regard to the trial of Europeans
Analysis
According to the official UPSC Answer Key for Prelims 2013, the correct option is removal of disqualifications imposed on Indian magistrates with regard to the trial of Europeans.
The Ilbert Bill controversy exposed the racial discrimination in the British judicial system. It aimed to allow qualified Indian judges to try European British subjects.
1. Restrictions on Indians carrying arms — Incorrect
This was related to the Arms Act, 1878, introduced during Lord Lytton’s period.
It required Indians to obtain a licence for possessing arms, while Europeans were treated more favourably.
This was not related to the Ilbert Bill controversy.
2. Restrictions on vernacular press — Incorrect
This was related to the Vernacular Press Act, 1878.
It targeted Indian-language newspapers that criticised British policies.
This is not the defining issue of the Ilbert Bill.
3. Removal of disqualifications imposed on Indian magistrates with regard to the trial of Europeans — Correct
The Ilbert Bill was introduced in 1883 during Lord Ripon’s tenure.
It sought to allow Indian District Magistrates and Sessions Judges to try European British subjects.
European opposition to this proposal led to the Ilbert Bill controversy.
4. Removal of duty on imported cotton cloth — Incorrect
This was related to British tariff policy and the protection of Lancashire textile interests.
It was not connected with the Ilbert Bill controversy.
Extra UPSC info
* The Ilbert Bill was introduced by Sir Courtenay Ilbert, the Law Member of the Viceroy’s Council.
* Lord Ripon was the Viceroy during the Ilbert Bill controversy.
* The European community strongly opposed the bill, showing racial prejudice in colonial India.
* The final compromise allowed Europeans to demand a jury with at least half European members.
* Lord Ripon is also known for promoting local self-government in India.
* The controversy helped strengthen Indian political consciousness before the formation of the Indian National Congress.
How to crack it
The Ilbert Bill controversy was about ending racial discrimination by allowing Indian magistrates to try European British subjects.