Final answer:
Queen Victoria promised fair treatment to Indians in the British Raj, but elite Indians often faced limitations in attaining real leadership positions due to a "glass ceiling". The resentment gave rise to Indian nationalists and the Indian independence movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the Sepoy Rebellion, the East India Company was disbanded and India was placed under direct rule from London. Queen Victoria promised fair treatment to Indians and allowed them to take civil service exams. However, despite their qualifications, elite Indians often hit a "glass ceiling" in the Raj, unable to attain real leadership positions. This led to resentment and the rise of Indian nationalists, ultimately contributing to the Indian independence movement.
Following the Sepoy Rebellion of 1857-1858, the British government dissolved the East India Company. Subsequently, India came under direct control of the British Crown through the establishment of the British Raj, marking the end of the company's influence in governing the Indian subcontinent.