Correct Option
The correct option isLord Canning
Explanation
The British East India Company systematically reduced the prestige and authority of the Mughal Emperor as part of their expansionist policies. These administrative decisions regarding the status of the Mughal lineage were significant political causes leading to the Revolt of 1857.
Detailed Analysis
- Lord Canning (Correct): In 1856, Governor-General Lord Canning announced that after the death of Bahadur Shah Zafar, his successors would not be allowed to use the imperial title of "King." Instead, they would be recognized merely as "princes." This decision struck a blow to the sentiments of Muslims and others who still regarded the Mughal Emperor as the legitimate sovereign.
- Lord Dalhousie (Incorrect): While Lord Dalhousie also contributed to the diminishing status of the Mughals, his specific action in 1849 was the announcement that after Bahadur Shah Zafar's death, the royal family would have to vacate the Red Fort and reside in a designated area near the Qutub Minar. He did not make the specific decision regarding the title of "King."
- Lord Bentinck (Incorrect): Lord William Bentinck served as Governor-General from 1828 to 1835. His tenure is associated with social reforms like the abolition of Sati and the suppression of Thuggee, not the specific policies regarding the Mughal succession in the 1850s.
- Lord Curzon (Incorrect): Lord Curzon served as the Viceroy of India much later, from 1899 to 1905. He is known for the Partition of Bengal (1905) and administrative reforms, unrelated to the pre-1857 policies concerning the Mughal dynasty.
Key Takeaway: Lord Canning was the Governor-General who declared that Bahadur Shah Zafar would be the last Mughal King, and his descendants would only be recognized as princes.