Q6. The Doctrine of Lapse was associated with

(a) Lord Cornwallis

(b) Lord Dalhousie

(c) Lord Wellesley

(d) Siraj-ud-Daulah

The correct Answer: (b) Lord Dalhousie

The correct answer is Lord Dalhousie, who introduced the Doctrine of Lapse during his tenure as Governor-General of India (1848–1856).

What was the Doctrine of Lapse?
It was a policy of annexation used by the British East India Company. According to this doctrine:

1. If an Indian ruler died without a natural male heir, his kingdom would automatically “lapse” and be annexed by the Company.
2. The adoption of a son as heir was not recognized unless approved by the British authorities.
3. The policy was presented as a legal principle but was mainly used to expand British territory in India.

Examples of States Annexed under Doctrine of Lapse:

• Satara in 1848
• Jhansi in 1854
• Nagpur in 1853
• Sambalpur in 1850

Impact of the Doctrine:

• It caused great resentment among Indian rulers and subjects.
• It was seen as an attack on Indian traditions of succession and adoption.
• One of the most famous cases was the annexation of Jhansi, which later inspired Rani Lakshmibai to revolt during the Revolt of 1857.

The Doctrine of Lapse became one of the most controversial policies of the British. While it expanded British territories, it also created widespread anger and was a key factor leading to the First War of Independence in 1857.