Fulton-

The rifle's passage through India doesn't surprise me a bit.
The amount of finish and metal removed from it during the 're-blue' process was likely in account for surface pitting or mild corrosion from the humid climate there.

The issue of it being 'stuck' may also have to do with it's life in the humidity of India.

This rifle was definitely not 'blued' from the factory, rather it most surely had a rich case-colored finish like this Lancaster in 6.5x53r

What a beauty it is too.
I would really love to have that rifle!

--Tinker