Correct Option
Lord Ripon repealed the Vernacular Press Act in 1882. The Vernacular Press Act, enacted in 1878 by Lord Lytton, aimed to suppress criticism against British policies in Indian-language newspapers. It allowed the government to confiscate the printing press and assets of any vernacular newspaper publishing 'seditious' material without prior judicial process. Lord Ripon, known for his liberal policies, abolished this act, thereby restoring a degree of press freedom.
Incorrect Options
- (1) Lord Dufferin: He served as Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888, which was after the repeal of the Vernacular Press Act. His tenure is notable for the Third Anglo-Burmese War and the establishment of the Indian National Congress.
- (3) Lord Curzon: He was Viceroy from 1899 to 1905. His administration is primarily associated with the Partition of Bengal (1905) and various administrative reforms, long after the Vernacular Press Act was repealed.
- (4) Lord Hardinge: He served as Viceroy from 1910 to 1916. Key events during his tenure include the annulment of the Partition of Bengal (1911) and the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi (1911). This period is much later than the repeal of the Vernacular Press Act.