Which one of the following was NOT a feature of the Subsidiary Alliance of Lord Wellesley ?

The Subsidiary Alliance system, introduced by Lord Wellesley in 1798, was a strategic tool to establish British paramountcy in India. Under its terms, the British East India Company assumed responsibility for protecting the allying state from both external threats and internal disturbances [1]. Therefore, the statement that the ally had to handle internal threats alone is incorrect. Key features included the permanent stationing of a British armed contingent within the ally's territory, for which the ruler had to provide resources or subsidies [1]. Additionally, the ally surrendered its sovereignty in external matters, agreeing not to negotiate or enter into agreements with other rulers or employ any Europeans without prior British consent [2]. A British Resident was also stationed at the ruler's court to oversee these diplomatic relations and internal administration [1].

Sources

1. [1] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 5: Expansion and Consolidation of British Power in India > Subsidiary Alliance > p. 120
2. [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subsidiary_alliance