Correct option is B
Punjab was annexed by the British on 29 March, 1849, after the conclusion of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. This marked the end of the Sikh Empire, which was founded by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and Punjab became a part of British India.
Information Booster:
- The annexation followed the defeat of Sikh forces at the Battle of Gujrat on February 21, 1849.
- Lord Dalhousie, the then Governor-General, played a crucial role in Punjab's annexation.
- The British deposed Maharaja Dalip Singh, the young ruler of Punjab, and sent him into exile.
- The Kohinoor diamond was taken by the British as part of the annexation treaty.
- Punjab was placed under direct British administration, with Lahore as its capital.
- The annexation brought an end to the sovereignty of the Khalsa Raj.
- It also marked the beginning of widespread British influence in northwestern India.
Additional Knowledge:
- 31 March, 1846: Marks the signing of the Treaty of Lahore after the First Anglo-Sikh War, not the annexation.
- 29 March, 1846: Incorrect date, confusion with events post-First Anglo-Sikh War.
- 29 March, 1848: Unrelated to any significant event in the annexation timeline.