Evolution of Civil Services

During British rule, the relationship between civil servants and local populations in India was complex and often tumultuous. Here are some key aspects of this relationship –

• Civil servants mostly British held positions of power and authority, while local populations were subject to their rule.
• The British civil servants often viewed Indian culture and customs as inferior leading to a sense of superiority and distance from the local population.
• Civil servants often had limited interaction with the local population, preferring to deal with local elites and intermediaries.
• When interacting with locals, civil servants often adopted a paternalistic approach by viewing themselves as guardians of the local population’s interests.
• The power imbalance and cultural divide led to exploitation and oppression of local populations with civil servants often prioritizing British interests over Indian needs.
• The British civil servants oversaw the extraction of India’s resources leading to economic exploitation and poverty.
• The imposition of British culture and values led to the erosion of Indian cultural heritage and identity.

Resistance and Nationalism –

• The exploitative and oppressive nature of British rule led to growing resentment among local populations fueling nationalist sentiments.
• The Indian National Congress and other nationalist movements emerged by challenging British rule and demanding independence.

In summary, the relationship between civil servants and local populations during British rule was marked by power imbalance, cultural divide, exploitation and oppression. This led to growing resentment, nationalist sentiments and ultimately the demand for Indian independence.