Part of: West Bengal Gk set 37

Consider the following Statements: The vast resources of Bengal was used wisely by EEIC for the benefit of the state. The English East India Company became the absolute rulers of Bengal in 1765. Based on the Except-The government in Bangladesh is struggling to meet the needs of millions of refugees that have fled there. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true?

Category: West Bengal Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the English East India Company's rule and the current refugee

Correct Answer: D) Only 2, 3.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The English East India Company (EEIC) was a significant colonial power in India, particularly in Bengal. The EEIC's rule over Bengal began in the mid-18th century, and it became the absolute rulers of Bengal in 1765 after the Battle of Buxar. This event marked a significant shift in the political landscape of Bengal, as the EEIC gained control over the Diwani rights, which allowed them to collect revenue and administer the region.

However, the EEIC's rule was not characterized by the wise use of Bengal's resources for the benefit of the state. Instead, the EEIC's primary objective was to extract wealth from Bengal to benefit the company and its shareholders in England. This exploitation led to significant economic and social hardships for the people of Bengal. The company's policies, such as the forced cultivation of cash crops like indigo and opium, and the heavy taxation, contributed to famines and economic distress in the region.

Regarding the current situation in Bangladesh, the country has been facing a significant refugee crisis. The influx of refugees, primarily from Myanmar, has placed a considerable strain on the Bangladeshi government's resources. The government is struggling to provide adequate shelter, food, healthcare, and other essential services to the millions of refugees who have fled to Bangladesh. This crisis has become a major humanitarian issue, requiring international attention and support.

Therefore, the correct answer is that only the second and third statements are true. The EEIC did become the absolute rulers of Bengal in 1765, and the government in Bangladesh is indeed struggling to meet the needs of millions of refugees. The first statement, which claims that the vast resources of Bengal were used wisely by the EEIC for the benefit of the state, is false.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect because the first statement is false. The EEIC did not use Bengal's resources wisely for the benefit of the state. The second statement is true, as the EEIC became the absolute rulers of Bengal in 1765.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect because the first statement is false. The EEIC did not use Bengal's resources wisely for the benefit of the state. The third statement is true, as the government in Bangladesh is indeed struggling to meet the needs of millions of refugees.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect because the first statement is false. The EEIC did not use Bengal's resources wisely for the benefit of the state. The second and third statements are true, but the inclusion of the first false statement makes the entire option incorrect.
  • Option D: This option is correct. The second statement is true, as the EEIC became the absolute rulers of Bengal in 1765. The third statement is also true, as the government in Bangladesh is struggling to meet the needs of millions of refugees.

Mnemonic: EER: English East India Rule

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