Correct option is D
The Doctrine of Lapse was a political policy introduced by Lord Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India (1848–1856). Under this policy, if a ruler of a princely state died
• It led to the loss of sovereignty of many princely states.
• States like Jhansi, Nagpur, and Satara were annexed using this policy.
• The annexation of Awadh (Oudh) on grounds of misgovernment was another major political grievance.
• The revolt was a mix of nationalist uprising, feudal discontent, and military rebellion.