Q. Which of the following best describes the probable political organization of the Mature Harappan Civilisation, given the archaeological evidence?

[A] A centralized, dynastic monarchy, where a priest-king ruled from the twin capitals of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.

[B] A powerful military state that enforced cultural homogeneity and controlled its vast territory through military outposts.

[C] A decentralized system, possibly a merchant oligarchy or a council-based civic administration, due to the absence of clear monarchical symbols.

[D] A theocratic state where the main deity, the Proto-Shiva, was worshipped, and the administration was run by a high-priest class.

Answer: C
Notes:

Explanation:

  • The most striking feature of the IVC is the uniformity in town planning, bricks, and weights across a massive area, which suggests strong administrative control.
  • However, the civilization conspicuously lacks clear evidence of a powerful centralized ruler: no great palaces, no royal tombs, and no dynastic statues (unlike Egypt or Mesopotamia).
  • Therefore, the consensus among scholars leans towards a form of collective governance—a merchant oligarchy (given the extensive trade) or a council of elites/elders responsible for civic order—rather than a single monarch.
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