Question

why did attitude of colonial government towards the freedom of press change after the revolt of 1857 draught control of freedom of press.

Answer 1

The Revolt of 1857 is also known as the First War of Independence. It was a major uprising against the British. It gave a
severe jolt to the British rule in India.

The press played an important
role in educating public opinion and influencing government policies through
criticism and censure. Indian leaders started newspapers which helped to arouse
national consciousness. In this way the press became a major weapon in the
hands of the nationalists. So the British rulers decided to curb its freedom.

They passed a number of Acts like:

i. Vernacular Press Act 1878 -
This Act was passed to prevent the Vernacular Press from criticizing the
British rule. According to it any magistrate or Commissioner of Police could
ask a printer or publisher of a newspaper to enter into a bond. This would
restrict him from printing anything which threatened peace and security. Any
writing which was considered objectionable would be confiscated. He had to
submit all the proof sheets of contents of the paper to the police prior to
publication.

ii. Indian Press Act 1910 - The
printer or publisher had to pay a security deposit of minimum Rs.500 and
maximum Rs.2000 for registration. If he published any objectionable matter the
amount would be forfeited and the registration would be cancelled.

iii. Indian Press Act 1931 - It
aimed to curb the propaganda for Civil Disobedience Movement.

iv. Press Regulating Act 1942 -
It demanded compulsory registration of journalists. It imposed restrictions on
the content related to acts of sabotage and civil disturbances.