Official records kept by the colonial state are an important source for the history of the national movement. Which of the following led the colonial rulers to produce such records?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → They kept close tabs on those they regarded as critical of the government
Option (1) They wished to collect material for official histories of the Raj — Incorrect. These records were made to <strong>watch critics</strong>. Historians came to use them only much later, in archives.
Option (2) They kept close tabs on those they regarded as critical of the government — Correct. The colonial rulers <strong>kept close tabs on those they regarded as critical</strong> of the government. Police letters and reports on such people now form a rich source.
Option (3) They had to answer questions raised by Indian members in the legislature — Incorrect. Questions in the legislature are a different matter. The records grew out of watching people seen as critics.
Option (4) They wanted to report to London on the yield of the salt tax — Incorrect. The salt tax was the target of the march. The records grew out of watching critics.
NCERT (2026-27): “6.3 Through police eyes |