Q. With reference to Aurangzeb’s policy toward the Rajputs, consider the following statements:
1.Aurangzeb generally maintained the sanctity of the Watan Jagir system, ensuring Rajput rulers retained their ancestral domains.
2.The Mughal-Rajput alliance first strained after Aurangzeb demanded a substantial Peshkash (tribute) from the Rajput states following his victory in the War of Succession.
3.The final break occurred over Aurangzeb’s attempt to directly annex the state of Marwar (Jodhpur) into the Khalisa lands, denying the succession claim of the deceased ruler’s minor son.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. While relations deteriorated, the Watan Jagir system remained largely intact, as it was the cornerstone of the alliance.
- Statement 2: Incorrect. While tribute was often exacted, the first major strain that led to war was Aurangzeb’s decision to interfere in the succession of Marwar (Jodhpur) and his aggressive actions towards the infant Ajit Singh.
- Statement 3: Correct. Following the death of Maharaja Jaswant Singh (Rathore ruler of Marwar) in 1678 CE, Aurangzeb initially refused to recognize the claim of his infant son, Ajit Singh, and attempted to place Marwar under Khalisa (direct Mughal administration), triggering the Rathore rebellion.
