The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The Revolt of 1857 led to the enactment of the Government of India Act, 1858, which transferred the powers of the East India Company to the British Crown. Queen Victoria’s Proclamation of November 1, 1858, announced the future policy of the British rule in India, aiming to stabilize the administration and prevent future uprisings.
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Queen’s Proclamation explicitly assured the Indian ruling chiefs that the British government had no desire to extend its territorial possessions. It promised that the rights, dignity, and honour of the native princes would be respected, and the earlier policy of annexation (such as the Doctrine of Lapse) was abandoned. They were not informed of any future annexation; rather, their sovereignty over their territories was guaranteed under British paramountcy.
- Statement 2 is Correct: One of the perceived causes of the revolt was the British interference in the social and religious customs of Indians (e.g., abolition of Sati, Widow Remarriage Act). Consequently, the British decided to adopt a policy of non-interference and respect the customary religious and social practices of the people of India to avoid provoking religious sentiments.
- Statement 3 is Correct: In the immediate aftermath of the revolt, the British viewed the Muslims with suspicion and hostility, believing them to be largely responsible for the rebellion. As a punitive measure, the land and property of Muslims were confiscated on a large scale, and they were discriminated against in recruitment and administration for several years.
Key Takeaway: The post-1858 British policy was characterized by the abandonment of territorial expansion, a promise of non-interference in religious affairs, and a temporary stance of hostility towards the Muslim community.