Q. Consider the following statements regarding the change in British policy towards Indian princely states after the revolt of 1857 CE:

1. The previous policy of annexing princely states at every opportunity was discontinued.
2. The princely states were recognized as equal sovereign governments by the British Crown.
3. The British colonial government ended its interference in the internal affairs of the princely states.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Answer: Only 1
Notes: After 1857, the British stopped the policy of annexing princely states (statement 1 correct). However, princely states were never considered equal sovereign entities and remained subordinate to British paramountcy (statement 2 incorrect). The colonial government continued to intervene in their internal matters through Residents and exercised control over administration (statement 3 incorrect).