Q. The fortification of Calcutta by the British in 1756 was regarded by the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, as
(a) growth of large-scale British trade
(b) an attack upon his sovereignty
(c) insecurity of the British in India
(d) British control over Bengal
Ans: (b) an attack upon his sovereignty
Explanation: The fortification of Calcutta by the British in 1756 was regarded by the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, as (b) an attack upon his sovereignty.
The construction of Fort William by the British East India Company without obtaining permission from the Nawab was seen by Siraj-ud-Daulah as a violation of his authority and an encroachment on his sovereignty. The fortification symbolized the growing British influence and control in Bengal, which threatened the Nawab’s power and autonomy. This led to Siraj-ud-Daulah’s anger and his subsequent attack on Calcutta in 1756. Therefore, the correct answer is (b) an attack upon his sovereignty.