Under _____ a new policy of “paramountcy” was initiated. In this policy the Company claimed that its authority was paramount or supreme, hence its power was greater than that of Indian states.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Lord Hastings.
Under Lord Hastings, a new policy of “paramountcy” was initiated during his tenure as Governor-General of India (1813–1823). This policy marked a significant shift in British strategy towards Indian princely states. By asserting that the British East India Company's authority was "paramount" or supreme, the Company claimed the right to interfere in the affairs of Indian states, even if they were not at war with the British. This doctrine allowed the British to expand their control indirectly by subordinating Indian rulers without direct annexation. It laid the foundation for future interventions and the consolidation of British imperial power in India.