Question

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow:

Print and Censorship The power of the printed word is most often seen in the way governments seek to regulate and suppress print. The colonial government kept continuous track of all books and newspapers published in India and passed numerous laws to control the press. During the First World War, under the Defence of India Rules, 22 newspapers had to furnish securities. Of these, 18 shut down rather than comply with government orders. The Sedition Committee Report under Rowlatt in 1919 further strengthened controls that led to imposition of penalties on various newspapers. At the outbreak of the Second World War, the Defence of India Act was passed, allowing censoring of reports of war-related topics. All reports about the Quit India movement came under its purview. In August 1942, about 90 newspapers were suppressed.

1. Explain the meaning of 'censor'.    [1]
2. Why did the colonial administration keep an eye on books and newspapers?    [1]
3. Why did Gandhiji start a nationwide Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act? Explain any two reasons.    [2]

Answer 1

1. Censor means to examine and suppress or remove parts of information, such as books, newspapers, or films, that the government considers objectionable or a threat to public order.
2. The colonial administration monitored books and newspapers to control anti-British ideas, suppress nationalist movements, and prevent criticism of British rule that could incite rebellion.
3. • Unjust Law: The Rowlatt Act allowed the British to arrest and detain Indians without trial, violating civil rights.
   • Suppression of Freedom: It was used to suppress freedom of speech and press, preventing protests against British rule.