Question

Which of the following statements is/are not true about privy purse?

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (D) only

Hint:

The privy purse was a source of contention as it continued privileges to erstwhile royalty, which conflicted with the ideals of equality and social justice after independence.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Privy Purse
The privy purse was a payment made by the Indian government to the erstwhile rulers of princely states after India’s independence. It was given as a form of compensation for the dissolution of their royal status and privileges.
Step 2: Analyzing each option
- (A) "A privy purse was given to the Princely States." This statement is true. The privy purse was indeed given to the princely states as compensation for the loss of their status after joining the Indian Union.
- (B) "It was given as an assurance that after the dissolution of princely rule, the then rulers' families would be allowed to retain certain private property and given a grant in heredity or government allowance." This statement is true. The privy purse was intended to protect the former rulers' families by allowing them to retain some private property and receive allowances.
- (C) "At the time of accession, there was little criticism of these privileges since integration and consolidation was the primary aim." This statement is true. At the time of India's integration, the priority was on consolidating the nation, and thus, the privy purse was seen as part of the process of integrating the princely states.
- (D) "Hereditary privileges were consonant with the principles of equality, social and economic justice." This statement is false. The privy purse, along with the hereditary privileges, was seen by many as inconsistent with the principles of equality, social justice, and economic fairness, especially after independence. The payment of the privy purse was a controversial issue.
Step 3: Final Answer
Since statement (D) is not true, the correct answer is Option 4.