Q. The Pitt’s India Act of 1784 sought to
(a) introduce some parliamentary control over the English East India Company
(b) reduce the armed forces of the East India Company to curtail the company’s trading rights
(c) curtail the company’s trading rights
(d) convert the company into a business firm without any political authority
Ans: (a) introduce some parliamentary control over the English East India Company
Explanation:
The Pitt’s India Act of 1784 sought to (a) introduce some parliamentary control over the English East India Company.
The Pitt’s India Act, also known as the East India Company Act of 1784, was introduced by the British Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger. It aimed to bring about greater parliamentary oversight and control over the affairs of the East India Company. The Act was a response to the growing concerns about corruption and mismanagement within the company.
Key provisions of the Pitt’s India Act included:
1. Creation of the Board of Control: The Act established a Board of Control in London, consisting of six members of the British government, who were responsible for overseeing and regulating the company’s activities in India.
2. Dual Control: The Act introduced a system of dual control, whereby the Board of Control had the power to supervise and direct the actions of the company, while the Court of Directors of the company retained some administrative powers.
3. Appointment of the Governor-General: The Act empowered the British government to appoint a Governor-General of Bengal who would have authority over the other Presidencies of Madras and Bombay.
4. Reporting and Accountability: The Act required the company to submit regular reports and accounts to the British government, ensuring greater transparency and accountability.
Overall, the Pitt’s India Act of 1784 marked a significant step in increasing parliamentary control and regulation over the activities of the East India Company in India. It aimed to address the issues of mismanagement and corruption and bring about greater accountability in the company’s operations.