Which of the following statements is/are correct in the context of the consequences of the 1857 revolt?

I. Lord Canning held a Durbar at Allahabad in November 1857.

II. The Indian administration was taken over by Queen Victoria.

Correct option is C

Correct Answer: C. Only II

Explanation:

• Statement I: Incorrect

  • The Durbar at Allahabad was not held in November 1857, but in January 1858.

  • It was organized by Lord Canning to formally announce the Queen’s Proclamation and the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown.

• Statement II: Correct

  • The Government of India Act 1858 marked the official transfer of Indian administration from the East India Company to the British Crown.

  • Queen Victoria became the sovereign ruler of India, and the office of the Secretary of State for India was created.

Information Booster:

• The 1857 Revolt, also known as the First War of Indian Independence, was a major but ultimately unsuccessful uprising against British rule.

• As a direct consequence, the British government decided to abolish the East India Company's rule and tighten control over India.

• The title “Empress of India” was later assumed by Queen Victoria in 1876.

Additional Information:

• Durbar at Allahabad (1858): Lord Canning read the Queen’s Proclamation, assuring no further annexations, equal treatment under law, and respect for Indian customs.

• End of Doctrine of Lapse: One of the assurances made was ending this unpopular policy.

• Indian Civil Service: Open to Indians by examination, but in practice, remained largely British-dominated.