Question

What was the objective of the Ilbert Bill? Why was it not passed?

Answer 1

Sir C.P. Ilbert, the law member of the Viceroy's Council introduced a bill, popularly known as the Ilbert Bill in 1883.

The objective of the bill: It sought to abolish judicial disqualification based on race distinctions.

This was resented by the British and they started a Defence Association to defend their special privileges. This reaction provoked a counter-agitation by educated Indians.

It was not passed because it enacted a more moderate measure which vested the power of trying Europeans to a Session Judge and a District Magistrate who might be an Indian.