Consider the following statements regarding the Revolt of 1857: 1. The revolt was formally sparked by the refusal of sepoys to use the Enfield rifle cartridges greased with animal fat. 2. Kunwar Singh led the uprising against British forces in the region of Bihar. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Both statements are correct. The immediate military catalyst for the 1857 revolt was the introduction of the Enfield rifle requiring greased paper cartridges rumored to contain beef and pork fat, outraging Hindu and Muslim sepoys. Veer Kunwar Singh spearheaded the rebellion in Bihar from Jagdishpur, displaying exceptional tactical brilliance despite his advanced age. The uprising shook the foundations of British colonial rule and led to the direct assumption of Indian administration by the British Crown in 1858.