The correct answer is option 1, Lord Canning. He was the Governor-General of India during the Sepoy Mutiny which occurred in 1857. This time period was crucial in the history of India and marked a significant uprising against British rule.

Option 2, Lord Dalhousie, was Governor-General before Lord Canning, from 1848 to 1856. He is known for his doctrine of lapse and rapid modernization of India, but he was not the one in charge during the Mutiny.

Option 3, Lord Hardinge, served as Governor-General from 1844 to 1848, preceding Lord Dalhousie. His rule was also significant but did not overlap with the Sepoy Mutiny.

Finally, option 4, Lord Lytton, was Governor-General from 1876 to 1880. His tenure occurred much later and is marked by controversial policies including his handling of the Great Famine of 1876–78. Hence, he was not present during the Sepoy Mutiny.