W.S. Seton Karr
Explanation
The Indigo Commission was appointed in 1860 by the British colonial government to inquire into the grievances of the ryots (peasants) against European indigo planters in Bengal. This commission was a direct outcome of the Indigo Revolt (1859–60), a significant peasant movement that highlighted the economic exploitation inherent in the colonial plantation system.Detailed Analysis
- W.S. Seton Karr (Correct): He served as the President of the Indigo Commission. The Commission's report was critical of the planters' coercive methods and concluded that the ryots could not be compelled to grow indigo if it was not profitable for them. The Commission also included members like Richard Temple, W.F. Fergusson, Reverend J. Sale, and Chandra Kumar Roy.
- Ashley Eden (Incorrect): He was the Magistrate of Barasat. He played a pivotal role in the movement by issuing a notification stating that ryots were free to cultivate whatever crops they desired and could not be forced into indigo contracts. While central to the revolt, he did not preside over the commission.
- Thomas Munro (Incorrect): He is associated with the introduction of the Ryotwari System in the Madras Presidency (early 19th century) and is not related to the Indigo Commission of 1860.
- Charles Cornwallis (Incorrect): He is best known for introducing the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793. He served much earlier than the period of the Indigo Revolt.