SSC CPO 2025 PYQ — Question 71

Answer: Option (B) is correct; they were required to report to the Governor-General on matters concerning war, peace, and revenue.
Explanation:
The Regulating Act of 1773 marked the first significant step towards the centralization of British rule in India. Through this Act, the Governor of Bengal was designated as the 'Governor-General of Bengal,' and the Governors of the Madras and Bombay Presidencies were made subordinate to him. Prior to 1773, the three Presidencies were independent of one another; however, following this Act, it became mandatory for the Governors of Madras and Bombay to seek the permission of—and report to—the Governor-General of Bengal regarding critical matters related to war, peace, and revenue. Warren Hastings became the first Governor-General of Bengal. Although he was permitted to seek direct instructions from the Court of Directors in London under exceptional circumstances, he was generally made accountable for the administration of Bengal.
Additional Points:
Analysis of Option (A): This is incorrect because the Act of 1773 abolished their independence and placed them under the authority of Bengal.
Analysis of Option (C): The Governors held responsibilities for civil and military administration, in addition to trade.
Analysis of Option (D): Prior to 1773, they were directly accountable to the Court of Directors; however, after 1773, the 'Governor-General-in-Council' was introduced as an intermediary link between them and London.
Key Fact: This Act also led to the establishment of a Supreme Court in Calcutta in 1774.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Who was the first Governor-General of India?
Answer: Warren Hastings (under the Regulating Act of 1773).
Question: Which Act changed the designation of the Governor of Bengal to 'Governor-General of Bengal'?
Answer: The Regulating Act of 1773. Question: Who was the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Calcutta, established in 1774?
Answer: Sir Elijah Impey.