Question

When was Rowlatt Act passed?

• A. 1917 A.D.
• B. 1918 A.D.
• C. 1919 A.D.
• D. 1920 A.D.

Hint:

Creating a timeline of key events during the Indian freedom struggle is essential. Link acts like the Rowlatt Act (1919) to the movements they triggered, such as the Rowlatt Satyagraha and the subsequent Jallianwala Bagh massacre, to build a strong conceptual understanding.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the year when the infamous Rowlatt Act was enacted by the British Indian government.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act of 1919, popularly known as the Rowlatt Act, was a legislative act passed by the Imperial Legislative Council in Delhi. It was officially passed in March 1919.
The act was based on the recommendations of the Sedition Committee chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlatt. It gave the government immense powers to repress political activities and allowed for the detention of political prisoners without trial for two years.
This "black act" was met with widespread anger and discontent among Indians. Mahatma Gandhi launched a nationwide hartal (strike), known as the Rowlatt Satyagraha, in protest. The tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, was a direct consequence of protests against this act.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Rowlatt Act was passed in the year 1919 A.D. Therefore, option (C) is the correct answer.