WBCS.LIVE practice question

The European Organization in India which launched agitation against the Ilbert bill was:

Solve this multiple-choice question and check the correct answer with its explanation below.

Answer options

  1. European Defence Association
  2. Indo-British Association
  3. Anti Ilbert Bill League
  4. European Rights Front

Correct answer and explanation

Correct answer: European Defence Association

Explanation: The correct answer is A. European Defence Association. The European Defence Association was formed in 1883 by Europeans living in India, especially the British, to oppose the Ilbert Bill. The Ilbert Bill, introduced by Lord Ripon, aimed to allow Indian judges to try British subjects in criminal cases in the Bengal Presidency. This proposal angered the European community, as they were unwilling to be tried by Indian judges, whom they considered socially and racially inferior. The European Defence Association launched a strong agitation against the bill, holding public meetings, passing resolutions, and even threatening mass resignations.