Among the political causes of the revolt, the chief factor was the Doctrine of Lapse followed by Lord Dalhousie. This policy deprived many kings of their kingdoms because they had no natural heir of their own since the right of adoption in such cases was denied by the British so the states automatically became a part of the British empire.
Discourtesy of the Mughal Emperors as Bahadur Shah Zafar was removed from Delhi’s throne.
The treatment meted out to Nana Saheb as he was the adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II and was refused pension as he was sending emissaries to different parts of the country and traveling himself to gather support for the rebellion.
Annexation of Oudh on grounds of misgovernance by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah.
Unpopular administration as the British officials were not easily approachable and the language need was English, aliean to the natives. Also, the British officials had great contempt for Indians.
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