The correct answer is: All of the above.
The Doctrine of Lapse was a policy introduced by the British East India Company in 1856, which stated that any Indian princely state whose ruler died without a male heir would be annexed by the British. This policy caused widespread anxiety among the rulers of remaining princely states, as well as among the landowning classes and nobility, and religious leaders.
The rulers of remaining princely states were concerned that they could be next to be annexed by the British, and that their own power and authority would be eroded. The landowning classes and nobility were concerned that the British would interfere in their traditional rights and privileges, and that their land would be confiscated. Religious leaders were concerned that the British would interfere in their religious affairs, and that their temples and mosques would be destroyed.
The Doctrine of Lapse was a controversial policy, and it was eventually abandoned by the British in 1861. However, it had a significant impact on the relationship between the British and the princely states, and it contributed to the growing sense of nationalism among Indians.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option (a): Rulers of remaining princely states in Andhra. The Doctrine of Lapse caused anxiety among the rulers of remaining princely states, as they were concerned that they could be next to be annexed by the British.
- Option (b): Landowning classes and nobility. The Doctrine of Lapse caused anxiety among the landowning classes and nobility, as they were concerned that the British would interfere in their traditional rights and privileges, and that their land would be confiscated.
- Option (c): Religious leaders fearing interference. The Doctrine of Lapse caused anxiety among religious leaders, as they were concerned that the British would interfere in their religious affairs, and that their temples and mosques would be destroyed.