Question

Why did the Indian Sepoys refuse to use the newly introduced rifles?

• A. Because they were difficult to use.
• B. Because they wanted to revolt against British.
• C. Because the cartridge grease was made with cow fat.
• D. Because the cartridge grease was made with pig fat.

Answer 1

Answer: (C), (D)

Because the cartridge grease was made with pig fat.

There was a rumour that the grease in the rifle cartridges was the fat of cows and pigs. The Hindus worshipped the cows, and the Muslims detested pigs. This raised a furore among the Indian Sepoys, and they refused to use the newly introduced rifles.