Which British government act instituted censorship of the press and permitted the detention of Indians without trial?
(1) Regulating Act
(2) Rowlatt Act
(3) Charter Act
(4) Vernacular Act
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option 2 - 2 (Rowlatt Act)
The British government act that instituted censorship of the press and permitted the detention of Indians without trial is the Rowlatt Act.
During the Great War of 1914-18, the British had instituted censorship of the press and permitted detention without trial. Now, on the recommendation of a committee chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlatt, these tough measures were continued. In response, Gandhiji called for a countrywide campaign against the “Rowlatt Act”. In towns across North and West India, life came to a standstill, as shops shut down and schools closed in response to the bandh call.