British colonial rule in India is characterized by a combination of direct and indirect rule, where direct governance was enforced in some areas while local rulers maintained authority in others under British influence. The British employed this hybrid system to control a diverse territory effectively. Thus, the correct answer is D.
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British colonial rule in India is characterized by a combination of direct and indirect rule. This system involved direct governance by British officials in some regions while allowing local rulers to maintain authority in others under British influence. Therefore, the best answer is option D. ;