The correct answer is: A) Reassert independence.
Some local rulers viewed the chaos of 1857 as an opportunity to reassert their independence from the British East India Company. They saw that the British were vulnerable and that they could take advantage of the situation to overthrow British rule.
Option B is incorrect because social reforms were not a priority for most local rulers at the time. They were more concerned with regaining their independence than with improving the lives of their subjects.
Option C is incorrect because forging alliances with the British was not in the best interests of most local rulers. The British were seen as a threat to their independence, and they did not want to make any deals with them.
Option D is incorrect because promoting religious harmony was not a priority for most local rulers at the time. They were more concerned with their own political interests than with promoting peace between different religious groups.
In conclusion, the correct answer is: A) Reassert independence.