Ilbert Bill aims and controversy — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2003

With reference to colonial rule in India, what was sought by the Ilbert Bill in 1883?

1. To bring Indians and Europeans on par as far as the criminal jurisdiction of courts was concerned
2. To impose severe restrictions on the freedom of the native press as it was perceived to be hostile to colonial rulers
3. To encourage the native Indians to appear for civil service examinations by conduction them in India
4. To allow native Indians to possess arms by amending the Arms Act

Explanation

Option (a) is the correct answer

• The Ilbert Bill aimed to remove racial discrimination in the judiciary by allowing Indian judges and magistrates to try European British subjects in criminal cases. Introduced during Lord Ripon’s tenure, it sought to give Indian civil servants the same judicial powers as Europeans, leading to strong opposition from the European community in India

Answer: (a) To bring Indians and Europeans on par as far as the criminal jurisdiction of courts was concerned