Learn about the Dual Government system in Bengal (1765-72) established by the East India Company after the Battle of Buxar. Discover how Robert Clive's policies impacted Bengal's administration and its people.
Dual System of Governance in Bengal (1765-72)
The aftermath of the Battle of Buxar marked a decisive shift in Bengal's governance, with the East India Company emerging as the primary power. The introduction of a dual system of administration had significant implications for revenue collection, law enforcement, and the welfare of the local population.
British Control Over Bengal and the Dual System of Governance After the Battle of Buxar
The East India Company established effective authority in Bengal following the Battle of Buxar.
(i) The Company became the actual ruler of Bengal, overshadowing the nominal authority of the Nawab.
(ii) Robert Clive implemented the dual system of governance, sharing power between the Company and the Nawab.
(iii) The diwani (revenue collection) and nizamat (judicial and police authority) were controlled by the Company, centralizing key administrative powers.
Mechanism of Company Control Over Diwani and Nizamat Functions
The Company systematically assumed both financial and administrative control while maintaining the appearance of indigenous rule.
Management of Diwani and Nizamat
(i) The Company exercised diwani authority by appointing deputy diwans and controlled nizamat through the nomination of the deputy subahdar.
(ii) Rights for diwani were obtained from the Emperor, while nizamat rights were taken from the subahdar of Bengal.
Advantages of the Dual System for the East India Company
The dual governance system provided strategic benefits, ensuring the Company retained ultimate control while projecting native authority.
Puppet Nawab and Retained Sovereignty
(i) The Nawab appeared as the ruler, but real power remained with the Company.
(ii) Though responsible for peace and order, the Nawab depended entirely on the Company for funds and military support.
Administration Under the East India Company
The Company streamlined administration by appointing trusted deputies for revenue and governance functions.
Deputy Diwans and Nazims
(i) Two deputy diwans were appointed: Mohammad Reza Khan for Bengal and Raja Sitab Roy for Bihar.
(ii) Mohammad Reza Khan additionally served as deputy nazim or deputy subahdar, consolidating administrative authority.
Consequences of the Dual System for the People of Bengal
While beneficial for the Company, the dual system proved disastrous for local administration and public welfare.
Impact on Governance and Welfare
(i) Administrative inefficiency increased, causing hardship for the people of Bengal.
(ii) Neither the Company nor the Nawab effectively addressed governance or public needs.
(iii) Warren Hastings abolished the dual system in 1772 to restore administrative efficiency.
Summary of British Control and Dual System in Bengal
Following the Battle of Buxar, the East India Company entrenched its authority in Bengal through the dual system of administration. While it secured financial and political power for the Company, the arrangement led to administrative inefficiency and hardships for the local population. The system’s eventual abolition by Warren Hastings marked a turning point in the governance of Bengal.
