Question

The Revolt of 1857 was conscious beginning of the independence struggle against the British. With reference to this, answer the following question:

Mention any four military causes which led to this Revolt.

Answer 1

Indian soldiers in the British army (Sepoys) express dissatisfaction with their treatment and British policy.

1. Discrimination in the British Army
   • Indian sepoys were paid less than British soldiers and held lower positions.
   • Despite their qualifications, they were barred from rising in the army ranks.
2. Introduction of the Enfield Rifle and Greased Cartridges
   • The new Enfield rifle cartridges needed to be chewed before loading.
   • Rumours spread that the cartridges were greased with cow fat, which is sacred to Hindus, and pig fat, which is prohibited by Muslims.
   • This sparked outrage among both Hindu and Muslim soldiers.
3. Forcing Indian Soldiers to Serve in Foreign Lands
   • Hindu beliefs hold that crossing the sea (Kala Pani) results in loss of caste.
   • The British General Services Enlistment Act of 1856 mandated that Indian troops serve outside of India.
   • This caused resentment among Hindu soldiers.
4. Annexation of Awadh and Its Impact on Sepoys
   • Many Indian soldiers came from Awadh, which was taken by the British in 1856.
   • The British insulted the Nawab of Awadh, leading to job losses and anger among his soldiers and nobles.
   • Many ex-soldiers joined the revolution to take revenge against British policy.