Which bill/act provided for the trial of British or European persons by Indians, and sought equality between British and Indian judges?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The Ilbert Bill of 1883 and Its Controversy -
The Ilbert Bill was a turning point in Indian history, exposing the racial discrimination of British rule in India.
Objective: This bill was introduced in 1883 by C.P. Ilbert, the Legal Member of the Council, during the tenure of Viceroy Lord Ripon. Its primary goal was to grant Indian judges the authority to try European (British) criminals who had committed crimes in India.
Attempt for Equality: Until then, Indian judges had no authority to try Europeans, while European judges had full authority to try Indians. This bill sought to eliminate this "racial discrimination" and establish judicial equality.
Opposition: The British living in India and Britain strongly opposed this bill. They argued that no Indian judge was qualified to try an Englishman. This protest is also known as the "White Mutiny."
Result and Amendment of the Bill
Due to fierce opposition, Lord Ripon was forced to amend the bill:
Indian judges could now try Europeans, but Europeans could demand a jury.
At least 50% of the members of this jury had to be European.