Which of the following Acts is also known as the Gagging Act? 

Correct option is B

The correct answer is: (B) Vernacular Press Act of 1878

Explanation:

• The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 is also known as the Gagging Act.

• It was enacted by the British colonial government to curb the influence of Indian-language newspapers and prevent the spread of nationalist ideas.

• The act gave the government the power to seize printing presses and confiscate copies of any publication that was deemed seditious or inflammatory.

Information Booster:

• The Vernacular Press Act was passed during the Viceroyalty of Lord Lytton.

• It was part of the British efforts to suppress Indian voices that were critical of colonial rule, especially during the rise of the Indian freedom movement.

• The act led to protests and was widely seen as an attempt to stifle free expression and curtail the nationalist press.

Additional Information:

• Government of India Act of 1858 – Established the direct rule of the British Crown in India, following the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.

• Government of India Act of 1919 – Introduced dyarchy and expanded the legislative councils, but did not impose direct restrictions on the press.

• Regulating Act of 1773 – The first step in British governmental reforms in India, primarily aimed at controlling the administration of the East India Company, but not related to press control.