After the Santhal Uprising subsided, what was/were the measure/measures taken by the colonial government ?

Correct Option

The Santhal Uprising (1855-1856) represented a significant tribal rebellion against colonial exploitation and the oppressive practices of zamindars and moneylenders. Following the suppression of this revolt, the British government implemented specific administrative and legal measures to address the underlying issues and prevent future unrest.

Firstly, the territories designated as 'Santhal Parganas' were formally created in 1856. This involved demarcating approximately 5,500 square miles from parts of the Bhagalpur and Birbhum districts. The establishment of Santhal Parganas aimed to provide a distinct administrative region and a protected homeland for the Santhal community, acknowledging their unique land tenure systems.

Secondly, the Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act (SPT Act) was subsequently enacted. A crucial provision of this act made it illegal for a Santhal individual to transfer land to a non-Santhal. This measure was designed to prevent the alienation of tribal land, protect Santhals from exploitation by outsiders, and preserve their traditional economic base.

Both statements accurately describe the measures taken by the colonial government in the aftermath of the Santhal Uprising.

Incorrect Options

Option (A) is incorrect because while the creation of Santhal Parganas was a significant measure, the restriction on land transfer from Santhals to non-Santhals was also implemented.

Option (B) is incorrect because while the restriction on land transfer was a key measure, the creation of Santhal Parganas was also a fundamental administrative step taken by the colonial government.

Option (D) is incorrect as both the creation of Santhal Parganas and the legal prohibition of land transfer from Santhals to non-Santhals were indeed measures undertaken by the colonial administration following the uprising.