Which of the following were immediate causes of the Revolt of 1857?
1. Introduction of the Enfield rifle cartridges
2. Widow Remarriage Act, 1856
3. Policy of Doctrine of Lapse

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Question

Which of the following were immediate causes of the Revolt of 1857?
1. Introduction of the Enfield rifle cartridges
2. Widow Remarriage Act, 1856
3. Policy of Doctrine of Lapse

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

All options are correct:
Introduction of Enfield Rifle Cartridges: These cartridges were rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat, which was deeply offensive to both Hindu and Muslim soldiers. This sparked widespread anger and resentment within the Indian sepoy regiments of the East India Company's army.

Widow Remarriage Act, 1856: Although a social reform, the Widow Remarriage Act was one of the immediate causes of the revolt. It was part of social reforms that caused discontent among some conservative sections but did not serve as an immediate trigger.

The Doctrine of Lapse: It allowed the British to annex Indian states (Satara, Jhansi, and Nagpur) if the ruler died without a male heir. This aggressive annexation policy angered many princely families and fueled resentment against British rule.

Revolt of 1857

Immediate causes

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
Which of the following were immediate causes of the Revolt of 1857? 1. Introduction of the Enfield rifle cartridges 2. Widow Remarriage Act, 1856 3. Policy of Doctrine of Lapse Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3