In whose period did the Ilbert Bill controversy take place?

The correct answer is Ripon.

Key Points

• The Ilbert Bill controversy occurred during the tenure of Lord Ripon, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1880 to 1884.
• The Ilbert Bill was introduced in 1883 and sought to allow Indian judges to preside over cases involving British subjects in India.
• The bill faced strong opposition from British residents in India, leading to widespread protests and debates.
• Lord Ripon supported the bill as part of his reformist agenda, aiming to provide greater equality in the judicial system.
• Due to intense resistance, the bill was eventually amended, limiting its scope and reinforcing racial prejudices in colonial governance.

Additional Information

• Lord Ripon
  • Lord Ripon is often referred to as the "Father of Local Self-Government in India" for his significant contributions to decentralization and municipal governance reforms.
  • He introduced the Local Self-Government Act of 1882, which empowered local bodies like municipalities and district boards.
• Ilbert Bill
  • The Ilbert Bill was named after Courtney Ilbert, the then law member of the Viceroy's council who drafted the legislation.
  • The bill highlighted racial inequalities in the colonial judicial system, sparking debates on the rights of Indians under British rule.
• Impact of the Controversy
  • The Ilbert Bill controversy exposed deep racial tensions between the British and Indians, further fueling nationalist sentiments.
  • The backlash against the bill led to the strengthening of Indian reform movements and demands for equality.
• Reforms under Ripon
  • Besides the Ilbert Bill, Ripon introduced educational reforms, including the promotion of primary and secondary education.
  • He repealed the controversial Vernacular Press Act (1878), thereby granting greater freedom to Indian publications.