The correct answer is: a) Stronger British control mechanisms.
The British East India Company first established a trading post in Tamil Nadu in 1612, but it was not until the mid-18th century that they began to consolidate their power in the region. This was due in part to the decline of the Mughal Empire, which had previously held sway over much of India. The British were able to take advantage of this power vacuum to expand their own influence.
One of the ways in which the British consolidated their power in Tamil Nadu was by establishing a strong military presence. They built forts and garrisons throughout the region, and they stationed large numbers of troops there. This gave them the ability to suppress any uprisings or rebellions.
The British also established a system of indirect rule in Tamil Nadu. This meant that they allowed local rulers to remain in power, but they required them to submit to British authority. This system allowed the British to control the region without having to maintain a large military presence.
The British also introduced a number of reforms in Tamil Nadu, such as building roads and schools. These reforms were designed to improve the lives of the people and to make them more loyal to the British.
Overall, the relatively recent consolidation of British power in Tamil Nadu meant that the British had a stronger control over the region. This was due to a number of factors, including the establishment of a strong military presence, the system of indirect rule, and the introduction of reforms.
The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:
- Option b) is incorrect because the British had been in power in the North for a longer period of time, so there were more accumulated grievances there.
- Option c) is incorrect because there was no greater support for British rule among the populace in Tamil Nadu than in the North.
- Option d) is incorrect because there were still potential rebel leaders in Tamil Nadu, even though the British had consolidated their power there.