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Indian Express
10-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Knowledge Nugget: Why is the Revolt of 1857 important for UPSC?
Take a look at the essential concepts, terms, quotes, or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here's your knowledge nugget for today. (Relevance: The Revolt of 1857 is one of the most important chapters of Indian history. UPSC has asked Mains questions in GS I on this topic in 2016 and 2019. Prelims questions were also asked on these themes. Therefore, it becomes important to understand this topic.) The rebellion of 1857, also known as India's first war of Independence, began on May 10, 1857. In the revolt, Indian sepoys rose up against the might of the British officers of the East India Company. This revolt witnessed an extraordinary amount of violence unleashed by both sides. It ended the rule of the East India Company on India by an Act of Parliament known as the Queen's Proclamation of 1858. With this, the rule of the Indian empire was taken over by the British crown. 1. The immediate cause of the 1857 revolt, cited by historians, was sparked off by a rumour that the new Enfield Pattern 1853 rifle-musket issued to the sepoys of the East India Company came with a cartridge dipped in beef and pork fat, which made it anathema to both Hindu and Muslim sepoys, who had to bite open the cartridge to load the weapon. 2. On March 29, 1857, sepoy Mangal Pandey fired at a British officer, and his comrades refused to arrest him. This led to his court-martial, and he was ultimately hanged to death. After this, the incidents of disobedience, incendiarism, and arson were reported from the army cantonments in Ambala, Lucknow, and Meerut, until finally, the Meerut sepoys started the revolt on 10 May. 3. Sekhar Bandopaddhya has written in his book 'From Plassey To Partition' that 'the mutiny mainly affected the Bengal army; the Madras and the Bombay regiments remained quiet, while the Punjabi and Gurkha soldiers actually helped to suppress the rebellion.' The entire South India remained unaffected too. 4. Along with economic exploitation in the form of increased rents, illegal acquisitions of land, decline of traditional handicrafts, and increased interference of the Britishers in Indian affairs, the annexation of Awadh by Lord Dalhousie on the grounds of misgovernance of Awadh and failing to introduce reform had an adverse effect on Bengal Army, which mainly consisted of sepoys from this region. 5. Leaders across the northern region rose to provide the leadership. Nana Sahib, the adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II, assumed leadership in Kanpur, Begum Hazrat Mahal took control over Lucknow, Veer Kuwar Singh was the chief organiser from the Bhojpur region of Bihar, Khan Bahadur Khan in Rohilkhand, and Rani Lakshmibai appeared as the leader of the sepoys in Jhansi. 6. After the outbreak of the mutiny in Meerut, the rebels reached Delhi, and Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared the Emperor of Hindustan. Bahadur Shah Zafar was, however, imprisoned and was later brought back as a prisoner to Shahjanabad. Later, he was exiled to Rangoon after a trial against him for sedition against his own empire. Many of the royal princes and princesses lost their lives either while trying to escape or died in poverty. 📍Battle of Chinhat: The Battle was fought on June 30, 1857, in Chinhat, near Lucknow. The East India Company's army led by Sir Henry Lawrence, the Chief Commissioner of Oudh, against a 'small troop of rebels' led by sepoy mutineer Barkat Ahmad. With several of his men killed or wounded and the guns 'almost out of ammunition', Sir Henry Lawrence ordered to retreat. On July 2, Lawrence was mortally wounded by a shell splinter fired from the 8-inch howitzer that rebels had captured at Chinhat. He died two days later. The siege ended only in November after a relief mission led by the new commander-in-chief in India, Sir Colin Campbell. 📍The siege of Aarah: Soon after the events in Meerut, Delhi and Lucknow, the European residents of Aarah in Bihar too realised, like in any other parts of the country, that they were standing on shaky ground. On the morning of July 27 the rebel sepoys, joined by Kunwar Singh and his forces, arrive in Arrah. For the next eight days, the rebels continued firing at the fortified house where the European residents were staying. The rescue operation under Major Vincent Eyre, stationed in Buxar, was successful in defeating the rebel sepoys and forced Kunwar Singh, along with his men, to retreat and leave Aarah. 📍The Battle of Bareilly: The city of Bareilly was one of the strongholds during the rebellion of 1857 and remained so for nearly a year. Here, the resistance was led by an 82-year-old Khan Bahadur Khan. He put up a strong fight against Sir Colin Campbell, who was then the Commander-in-Chief of the British Army and marching towards Bareilly. In an action that lasted for nearly six hours and nearly cost the renowned war correspondent his life, the British forces were successful in making Khan's force retreat and take over the city. 1. The first ever Government of India Act of 1858 came after the 1857 War of Independence. The Viceroy of the Queen replaced the Governor-General of the Company as the supreme authority in India. 2. It made a commitment to 'respect the rights, dignity and honour of the native princes as our own'. It also promised religious toleration and proposed to govern Indians according to their established traditions and customs. 3. A new government department in London, the India Office, headed by the Secretary of State, was constituted. The Secretary of State was to be advised by a new Council of India located in London. With this, Indian affairs came under close and regular scrutiny of the British Parliament. (1) Who was the Governor-General of India during the Sepoy Mutiny? (UPSC CSE 2006) (a) Lord Canning (b) Lord Dalhousie (c) Lord Hardinge (d) Lord Lytton (2) What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria's Proclamation (1858)? (UPSC CSE 2014) 1. To disclaim any intention to annex Indian states. 2. To place the Indian administration under the British Crown. 3. To regulate East India Company's trade with India. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. (a) 1 and 2 (b) Only 2 (c) 1 and 3 (d) All of the above (3) With reference to the 'Revolt of the year' 1857, which of the following was betrayed by friend captured and put to death by the British? (UPSC CSE 2006) (a) Nana Sahib (b) Kunwar Singh (c) Khan Bahadur Khan (d) Tantia Tope (Source: A History of Modern India by Ishita Banerjee-Dube and From Plassey to Partition by Sekhar Bandopaddhya) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for April 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Khushboo Kumari is a Deputy Copy Editor with The Indian Express. She has done her graduation and post-graduation in History from the University of Delhi. At The Indian Express, she writes for the UPSC section. She holds experience in UPSC-related content development. You can contact her via email: ... Read More
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First Post
10-05-2025
- Politics
- First Post
History Today: When Indian sepoys led the first revolt against British Raj in 1857
May 10, 1857, is an important day in Indian history as the First War of Independence against the British broke out on this day. The first uprising occurred in Meerut and quickly spread to nearby cities like Lucknow, Kanpur and Jhansi, with people from all walks of life joining the movement. On this day in 1994, anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela scripted history as the first man of colour to become the president of South Africa read more The rebellion quickly spread to cities like Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, and Gwalior, uniting various rulers, soldiers and civilians against British control. Representational image It was a long road for India to gain freedom from the British in 1947. But, that was the end of India's freedom struggle. If it was the end you may wonder what was the beginning. The freedom struggle began with the 1857 Rebellion also known as the First War of Independence. It was on May 10, 1857 that this outbreak of a massive uprising against British rule broke out in Meerut. It quickly spread across northern and central India. The uprising was fueled by deep resentment against the British East India Company's oppressive policies, economic exploitation and cultural insensitivity toward Indian traditions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers' ongoing series, History Today will be your one-stop destination to explore key events. On this day in 1994, Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the first Black President of South Africa, marking the end of decades of apartheid. Here is all that occurred on this day across the world. The rebellion of 1857 It was on May 10, 1857 that a massive uprising broke out in the garrison town of Meerut against British rule, which began in the garrison town of Meerut and quickly spread across northern and central India. Widely recognised as India's First War of Independence, this significant rebellion arose from profound discontent with the British East India Company's oppressive administrative practices, its economic exploitation of Indian resources, and its lack of respect for Indian cultural sensitivities. One of the main reasons for the uprising was the introduction of the new Enfield rifle, which required soldiers to bite cartridges allegedly greased with cow and pig fat. This was an act offensive to both Hindus and Muslims. When 85 Indian sepoys at Meerut refused to use the cartridges, they were court-martialed and imprisoned. Their comrades rebelled, released them, and marched to Delhi, where they declared the ageing Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar as the symbolic leader of the revolt. The rebellion quickly spread to cities like Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, and Gwalior, uniting various rulers, soldiers and civilians against British control. Notable figures such as Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Tantia Tope, Nana Sahib, and Begum Hazrat Mahal emerged as key leaders. Their aim was not just to resist a military force but to reclaim lost autonomy and honour. Despite widespread support and fierce resistance, the British eventually suppressed the revolt by mid-1858 through superior military power and brutal retaliation. The aftermath marked a turning point: the East India Company was dissolved and the governance of India was transferred directly to the British Crown under Queen Victoria. Nelson Mandela inaugurated as president of South Africa South Africa for centuries had been ruled by the British Empire. Although it gained independence in 1931, it was in 1961 that the country became a true republic and severed ties with the British monarchy. But, even after this the country held its first non-racial democratic elections in 1994. On May 10, 1994, Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the first Black President of South Africa. This marked the end of decades of apartheid and the beginning of a new democratic era. The historic event, held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, was witnessed by thousands of South Africans and dignitaries from around the world. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Nelson Mandela, left, takes the oath of office in Pretoria, South Africa, to become the country's first black President. File image/AP The inauguration followed South Africa's first multiracial elections, held in April 1994, in which Mandela's party the African National Congress (ANC), won by a landslide. The peaceful transition of power, after years of violent struggle and systemic racial segregation, was a moment of profound significance. In his inauguration speech, he declared, 'Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another.' He emphasised unity, healing and building a 'rainbow nation at peace with itself and the world.' Mandela's inauguration marked a triumph of human dignity over institutionalized racism. It was not just the beginning of a new presidency, but the rebirth of a nation. This Day, That Year On this day in 1962, Marvel Comics released the first issue of The Incredible Hulk. Germany invaded Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands during World War II in 1940. Louis XVI acceded to the throne of France on this day in 1774.
United News of India
05-05-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
SC rejects 'Descendant of Bahadur Shah Zafar' claim seeking Red Fort possession
New Delhi, May 5 (UNI) The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea filed by a woman claiming to be the descendant of the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, seeking possession of the Red Fort on the basis of her lineage. A Bench of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice PV Sanjay Kumar held the petition to be completely misconceived. 'Why only Red Fort? Why not Fatehpur Sikri? Why leave them also?' the Court remarked, before dismissing the writ petition. The plea was filed by one Sultana Begum, who claimed to be the widow of the great-grandson of Bahadur Shah Zafar II. She sought both possession of the Red Fort and compensation from the Government of India, asserting that the property was taken away following the 1857 revolt, after which the emperor was exiled and the British East India Company seized control of the Fort. Her counsel argued that the Delhi High Court had previously dismissed the matter solely on the grounds of delay, and requested the Supreme Court to do the same. 'Please dismiss on delay only,' the advocate submitted. However, the Apex Court declined, dismissing the plea outright on merits. Earlier, a Division Bench of the Delhi High Court comprising Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela had dismissed her appeal in December 2024, observing a delay of over 900 days from the date of the single-judge order passed in December 2021. The single-judge Bench had noted that the alleged cause of action arose more than 164 years ago. It stated, "Even if the petitioner's case were to be accepted that late Bahadur Shah Zafar II was illegally deprived of his property by the East India Company, as to how the writ petition would be maintainable after such an inordinate delay of over 164 years when it is an admitted position that the petitioner's predecessors were always aware of this position." Following dismissal at both the single and division bench levels of the High Court, the petitioner had approached the Supreme Court, which has now conclusively rejected the claim. UNI SNG SJC
Time of India
05-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Only sought Bahadur Shah Zafar's house': Mughal emperor's 'heir' Sultana Begum after SC rejects plea for Red Fort ownership
AI-generated image NEW DELHI: Sultana Begum , who claims to be the geat-granddaughter-in-law of the last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar , broke down in disappointment on Monday after the Supreme Court dismissed her plea seeking possession of the Red Fort . The court, led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, dismissed her petition as 'completely misconceived.' The bench said, 'Why only Red Fort? Why not Fatehpur Sikri? Why leave them also.' The ruling came as a final blow to Begum, who has spent years trying to reclaim what she says is her rightful ancestral property. Speaking to ANI news agency with visible emotion, she said, "I did not mention Lal Qila (Red Fort), I only sought possession of Bahadur Shah Zafar's house. I don't know whether it is Lal Qila (Red Fort), Zafar Mahal or Fatehpur the government knows...I was hopeful that I would get justice from the SC, but today that hope has shattered. Now, where should I go? Should I go and beg now or defame him? What should I do? Bahadur Shah Zafar did so much for his nation; he sacrificed his son, his crown was taken, but he never betrayed his country...I got an offer of help from so many countries, but I said that I will not leave my nation. I am completely shattered after who betrayed their country are living a lavish life, and the man who was loyal to his country, his family is suffering is no one to listen to us...I denied the public's help because I had faith in the SC. But now, when no options are left, I will get help from the public..." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 3 Reasons to Plug This Into Your Home Today elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Learn More Undo Begum had approached the apex court after the Delhi high court rejected her plea in both 2021 and 2024. The high court had cited an 'inordinate delay' of over 150 years in bringing the matter to court. In her petition, Begum said that the Red Fort was taken from her family after the 1857 revolt against East India Company , when the British exiled Bahadur Shah Zafar and seized control of the property. She claimed the central government is now the 'illegal occupant' and sought either possession or financial compensation for its use since 1857. Begum also stated that her late husband, Mirza Muhammad Bedar Bakht - believed to be the great-grandson of Zafar - was officially recognised by the Nehru government in 1960 and granted a political pension. She married him in 1965 and received a pension after his death in 1980. Now, with the Supreme Court closing the door on her legal claim, Sultana Begum says she has no choice but to turn to the public for support.
India Today
05-05-2025
- Politics
- India Today
Never asked for Red Fort, only his rightful home: Mughal emperor's heir on plea
The 'heir' of Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar expressed disappointment over the Supreme Court rejecting her plea seeking possession of the Red Fort, saying her motive was only to know the emperor's rightful Begum, who claimed to be the widow of the great-grandson of Bahadur Shah Zafar, lives in a tiny two-room hut in Kolkata's Howrah - a stark contrast to the opulent Mughal palaces her ancestors once lived to India Today about the Supreme Court verdict, Sultana said, "The one hope I had in the Supreme Court has also ended. It feels like the ground beneath my feet has slipped away. My last hope now lies with the Modi government." On Monday, a bench of Chief Justice (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna and Justice PV Sanjay Kumar dismissed her plea seeking possession of the Red Fort on account of allegedly being the legal heir of the emperor."Why only Red Fort? Why not Fatehpur Sikri? Why leave them also? Writ is completely misconceived. Dismissed," the court Sultana said she never asked for the Red Fort. "We didn't ask for the Red Fort or Fatehpur Sikri. We only said that kings and emperors had palaces and homes. Then where is Bahadur Shah Zafar's home? We only sought his rightful residence," she emotional Sultana said Bahadur Shah Zafar sacrificed everything for the country, but all his properties were taken the first War of Independence in 1857, Zafar, who became the face of the rebellion, was exiled to Rangoon. He died in 1862."Was Bahadur Shah Zafar's loyalty in vain? He sacrificed his crown for the nation. Everything he had was taken from him by the British. Today, the traitors are prospering, while Zafar's descendants are wandering in despair," Sultana further said.'RECEIVED INVITE FROM PAKISTAN'Sultana also claimed that she had received an invitation from Pakistan to settle there but refused to betray her country."I could have left India in 1981 when people from the US and Paris offered to take me there. They said I had no respect here, and my children would live better abroad. We even received an offer from Pakistan, but we refused... We would never let Bahadur Shah Zafar feel ashamed," she emphasised that traitors like Mir Jafar were rewarded, but Zafar's descendents were "suffering miserably". "History shows how traitors like Mir Jafar benefited, while we, who remained loyal to our nation, are left to struggle," she has now pinned her hopes on the Modi government to find a solution to her issue. "We haven't approached anyone yet. We'll see what happens next. If nothing works out, we will petition the government," she Watch
