OPSC OAS 2023 PrelimsHistory, Art & CultureQuestion 5
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2023 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
The first modern judicial court in India presided over by Elijah Impey was set up in:
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) Kolkata
The Supreme Court of Calcutta was established in 1774 under the Regulating Act of 1773, and Sir Elijah Impey was appointed as its first Chief Justice.
Key Facts
- Regulating Act of 1773 — passed by British Parliament to regulate the East India Company’s affairs in India
- Supreme Court of Calcutta established: 1774
- Located at Fort William, Calcutta
Significance of this Court
- First court to function on the basis of English common law in India
- Had jurisdiction over British subjects in Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha
- Marked the beginning of formal, codified judicial system in India replacing arbitrary Company rule
- Led to famous controversy — Elijah Impey vs Warren Hastings conflict over court jurisdiction
