Q. With reference to the Sikh resistance against the Afghan invasions led by Ahmad Shah Abdali in the mid-18th century, consider the following statements:
1.Ahmad Shah Abdali’s repeated invasions inadvertently strengthened Sikh political unity by forcing the decentralized Misls to formally organize under the unified command of the Dal Khalsa.
2.The event known as the Vadda Ghallughara (Great Massacre) refers to the destruction of the city of Amritsar and the execution of thousands of Sikh soldiers and civilians by the Afghan forces in 1762 CE.
3.The primary strategy adopted by the Sikhs against Abdali was one of elusive guerrilla warfare (dhar-pat), which aimed at harassing the Afghan lines of supply rather than engaging in large, decisive pitched battles.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. The constant pressure from Abdali forced the Sikh groups to realize the necessity of a unified military command, leading to the institutionalization of the Dal Khalsa (The Army of the Khalsa).
- Statement 2: Correct. The Vadda Ghallughara (February 1762) was a massive operation by Abdali’s forces where they encircled and slaughtered a large body of Sikhs, followed by the systematic destruction of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) and other shrines in Amritsar.
- Statement 3: Correct. Following the setback of the Vadda Ghallughara, the Sikhs quickly reverted to highly effective dhar-pat (surprise attacks and plunder) guerrilla tactics, making it impossible for the Afghans to consolidate power in Punjab.
