Indian Press Act of 1910: A Repressive Measure Against Nationalist Journalism

History Indian History

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-02-03 09:30:25 |

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The Indian Press Act of 1910 was a repressive law enacted by the British government to curb the growing influence of the nationalist press in India. This act was introduced in response to the increasing use of newspapers and periodicals by Indian revolutionaries and political leaders to spread anti-British sentiments, mobilize public opinion, and encourage the freedom struggle. The British saw the press as a major threat to their rule and sought to control it through strict regulations.  

The Act was largely influenced by the failure of the Vernacular Press Act of 1878, which had imposed severe restrictions on non-English newspapers. After being repealed in 1882, Indian newspapers gained considerable freedom, which led to a surge in nationalist writings criticizing British policies. Following the rise of revolutionary activities, such as the Swadeshi Movement (1905–1908) and the assassination of British officials by revolutionaries, the British felt an urgent need to suppress press freedom. Lord Minto, the then Viceroy of India, played a key role in drafting the new law, which was eventually enacted in March 1910.  

Under the Indian Press Act of 1910, publishers were required to submit a security deposit, which could be forfeited if their publication contained seditious or anti-government content. The act granted authorities the power to seize printing presses, ban newspapers, and imprison editors and journalists for publishing material deemed inflammatory. Newspapers that opposed British rule or supported nationalist leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai were frequently targeted.  

The law was widely criticized by Indian political leaders and journalists, who saw it as an attack on freedom of expression. Despite the repression, many nationalist newspapers, such as Kesari, Bande Mataram, and The Hindu, continued to operate, often finding ways to evade censorship. The act remained in force for several years and was used extensively during World War I to suppress any anti-British sentiment.  

Ultimately, the Indian Press Act of 1910 failed to silence the nationalist movement. Instead, it fueled greater resentment against British rule and strengthened the demand for press freedom, which later became a key aspect of India's independence struggle. The act was repealed in 1921, following growing political pressure and the changing political landscape under the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms.

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