Describe Burke’s Critique of Hastings in his “Speech on the East India Bill.”

Answer

Describe Burke’s critique of Hastings in his “Speech on the East India Bill.”

Or How does Burke criticize Hastings and his lieutenants/associates in his “Speech on the East India Bill?”

Warren Hastings (1732-1818) was the first Governor-General of India. He served from 1773 to 1785 and was vital in establishing British colonial rule in India. In Edmund Burke’s (1729-1797) December 1, 1783 speech, he criticizes this governor general and his lieutenants for their actions and governance in India. Burke’s main points of criticism are as follows:

Abuse of Absolute Authority: Burke condemns Hastings for assuming absolute authority over Indian rulers and landholders. He quotes Hastings’ doctrine, highlighting that Hastings believed the Company or its delegates had “absolute authority” over zemindars (landholders), requiring “implicit and unreserved obedience” at the risk of their life and property. Burke finds this power extreme and not sanctioned by any “commission, instruction, or act of parliament.”

Unjust Treatment of Cheit Sing: Burke criticizes Hastings for unjustly treating Cheit Sing. Cheit Sing is the Raja of Benares. He points out that Hastings treated Cheit Sing not as a sovereign prince but merely as a subject, imposing heavy fines and penalties based on unfounded accusations. Burke notes that Hastings demanded large sums of money and punished Cheit Sing severely despite the Raja’s compliance with earlier demands.

Lack of Due Process: Burke emphasizes that Hastings did not follow any legal procedures in his dealings with Indian rulers. He states that Hastings never made formal charges, produced witnesses, or held trials. Instead, Hastings acted on “reports, hearsays, appearances, rumours, conjectures, and presumptions,” deciding the guilt of individuals without any formal process.

Destruction of Prosperous Regions: Burke criticizes Hastings for the decline in prosperity in regions under his control. He uses the example of Farruckabad, where Hastings’ policies led to ruin and distress. Initially, a British resident was appointed to protect the region, which showed signs of recovery. However, Hastings later withdrew the resident and allowed the Nabob of Oude’s agents, whom he had previously