Setting up a New Administration
Warren Hastings, serving as Governor-General from 1773 to 1785, played a pivotal role in advancing Company authority. During his tenure, the Company expanded its influence in Bengal, Bombay, and Madras. British territories were categorized into administrative divisions known as Presidencies, consisting of Bengal, Madras, and Bombay, each governed by a Governor.
In 1772, a new judicial framework was introduced, mandating the establishment of two courts in every district – a criminal court (Faujdari adalat) and a civil court (diwani adalat).
Diverse interpretations of local laws by Brahman pandits, based on different schools of Dharmashastra, led to inconsistencies. To address this, in 1775, eleven pandits were tasked with compiling a digest of Hindu laws. Additionally, by 1778, a code of Muslim laws was formulated for the guidance of European judges.
The Regulating Act of 1773 facilitated the establishment of a new Supreme Court, alongside a court of appeal – the Sadar Nizamat Adalat – established in Calcutta. The Collector held a central role in Indian districts, responsible for revenue collection, tax administration, and maintenance of law and order, aided by judges, police officers, and darogas.
CBSE Class 8 History Notes Chapter 2 – From Trade to Territory
Were you aware that the British initially arrived as a modest trading entity and showed reluctance in territorial expansion? So, how did they evolve into rulers of a sprawling empire?
This chapter delves into the transformation, detailing the ascent of the East India Company, the expansion of trade, the establishment of new business regulations, and significant events like The Battle of Plassey. These notes for CBSE Class 8 History, Chapter 2 – From Trade to Territory, provide students with the confidence to tackle their History exams effectively.