Rise of Extremism — Key Changes

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
Seditious Meetings Act	1907	This act empowered the government to prohibit public meetings deemed likely to cause disaffection or public disturbance. It was specifically aimed at curbing the growing wave of nationalist protests and speeches, particularly those associated with the Extremist leaders.	Severely restricted freedom of assembly and speech, making it difficult for Extremists to organize mass gatherings and spread their message. Many nationalist leaders were arrested under this act.
Explosive Substances Act	1908	Enacted in response to the increasing incidents of bomb attacks by revolutionary groups, this act made the possession of explosive substances with intent to endanger life or property a serious offense, punishable by severe penalties.	Aimed at suppressing revolutionary terrorism by making it harder for groups to manufacture and use bombs. It led to the arrest and conviction of many revolutionaries, including those involved in the Alipore Bomb Case.
Newspapers (Incitement to Offences) Act	1908	This act gave magistrates the power to confiscate printing presses and forfeit property used for publishing newspapers that incited murder, acts of violence, or other offenses. It targeted nationalist newspapers that were critical of British rule.	Curtailed press freedom significantly, leading to the closure of many nationalist publications and the imprisonment of journalists. Bal Gangadhar Tilak was famously tried and imprisoned under this act for his writings in 'Kesari'.
Indian Press Act	1910	Considered one of the most repressive press laws, it required publishers to deposit security with the government, which could be forfeited if the newspaper published objectionable material. It also granted powers to demand fresh security or declare forfeiture.	Effectively silenced much of the nationalist press by imposing heavy financial burdens and the constant threat of forfeiture. It was widely used to suppress criticism of the government and curb the spread of extremist ideas.
Criminal Law Amendment Act	1908	This act introduced summary trials for certain offenses and allowed for the formation of special tribunals to try cases of political violence, bypassing normal judicial procedures. It also made it easier to declare associations unlawful.	Streamlined the prosecution of political activists and revolutionaries, often denying them fair trials. It was a key tool in the government's efforts to dismantle secret revolutionary societies and suppress political dissent.