Why did annexation of Awadh become a cause of discontent in the Revolt of 1857?

Correct answer: Because discontent increased among soldiers, taluqdars and people

The direct answer is D: discontent increased among soldiers, taluqdars and the people. Awadh was annexed by the British in 1856, and this disturbed several groups at once. The removal of the nawab weakened the old political order; taluqdars lost authority and land rights; peasants faced pressure; many soldiers came from Awadh and felt connected to the displaced ruling family and local society. Step by step: annexation removed the nawab; administrative and land changes upset taluqdars and peasants; soldiers and civilians became resentful; this helped create the wider background of the 1857 Revolt. Option A is wrong because the Chipko Movement belongs to the twentieth century and concerned forests. Option B is wrong because the INA was formed much later during the Second World War. Option C is wrong because the Bhoodan Movement was a later land-gift movement. Option D correctly identifies the groups affected. Memory cue: Awadh annexation means nawab removed, taluqdars angered, soldiers and people alienated.