Which base of colonial rule was challenged when lawyers boycotted courts?

Correct answer: Prestige and legitimacy of the judicial institution

Colonial courts were important institutions through which the government exercised authority and presented its rule as lawful and respectable. Lawyers helped courts function and gave them professional credibility. When lawyers boycotted them, they withdrew cooperation and challenged the courts’ prestige and legitimacy. This action did not directly target military weapons, railway construction or village religious traditions, so B, C and D are unsuitable.