Q. Rule of Law in British India meant
(a) that everybody was equal in the eyes of law
(b) that British and Indian subjects went to the same courts
(c) that laws were framed and courts set up
(d) the guarantee of personal liberty.
Ans: (c) that laws were framed and courts set up
Explanation: The correct answer is (c) that laws were framed and courts were set up.
The Rule of Law in British India referred to the establishment of a legal system with the enactment of laws and the establishment of courts. It involved the development of a legal framework to govern British India and the administration of justice.
Option (a) that everybody was equal in the eyes of the law is an important principle of the Rule of Law, but it was not fully realized during the colonial period. There were significant inequalities and discriminatory laws that favored the British rulers.
Option (b) that British and Indian subjects went to the same courts is partially correct, as both British and Indian subjects did have access to the same courts in some instances. However, there were separate courts for certain matters, and the British often received preferential treatment.
Option (d) the guarantee of personal liberty is an essential aspect of the Rule of Law. However, during the British colonial rule, personal liberties were often curtailed, and there were instances of arbitrary arrests, detentions, and restrictions on individual freedoms.
Therefore, the most accurate statement that reflects the Rule of Law in British India is (c) that laws were framed and courts were set up.
