Sambhav-2024

• Start the answer with a discussion that sets a context for the question.
• Discuss the impact of this policy on princely states
• Discuss the major consequences of this doctrine for the political landscape of the time.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

The Doctrine of Lapse was implemented by Lord Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India, during the 19^th century. It contributed to the centralization of British power, and economic exploitation, and sowed the seeds of discontent that eventually led to significant political changes in India.

Body

Impact on the Princely States:

• Annexation of States: The Doctrine of Lapse was a policy through which the British East India Company could annex any princely state if it lacked a natural heir.
  • This led to the annexation of several states, including Satara, Jhansi, and Nagpur.
• Erosion of Sovereignty: Princely states were traditionally allowed to adopt heirs, even if they were not biological offspring. This Doctrine stated that the adopted son could be the heir to his foster father’s private property but not the state.
  • It was for the paramount power to decide whether to bestow the state on the adopted son or to annex it, thereby diminishing the sovereignty of the princely rulers.
• Economic Exploitation: The annexation of princely states under the Doctrine of Lapse often resulted in economic exploitation.
  • The British East India Company confiscated the wealth and resources of these states, contributing to the economic drain from India to Britain.

Consequences for the Political Landscape:

• Centralization of Power: By annexing states, the British East India Company extended its territorial control and consolidated political authority.
  • The Doctrine of Lapse contributed to the centralization of power in British hands.
• Distrust and Resentment: The policy created distrust and resentment among the princely rulers and the Indian population.
  • The annexation of Awadh by Lord Dalhousie on the pretext of maladministration left thousands of nobles, officials, retainers, and soldiers jobless.
• Culmination in the Revolt of 1857: The annexations were perceived as a violation of established norms and customs, leading to discontent and a growing anti-British sentiment.
  • These annexation policies played a major role in fueling grievances that culminated in the Indian Revolt of 1857.

Conclusion

The events surrounding the Doctrine of Lapse and the subsequent Indian Revolt of 1857 led to the end of the rule of the British East India Company. The British Crown took over direct control of India, marking a significant shift in governance.