Q. With reference to the development of Akbar’s religious policy, consider the following statements:
1.The concept of Sulh-i-Kul (peace to all) was conceived by Akbar after the debates held in the Ibadat Khana, which was open to all religious scholars from its inception.
2.Akbar issued the Mahzar (Infallibility Decree) in 1579 CE, granting him the authority to choose between conflicting interpretations of Islamic law, which preceded the abolition of the Jizya.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Incorrect. The Ibadat Khana (House of Worship), established in 1575 CE, was initially open only to Sunnis, then to all Muslim sects, and only later (1578 CE onwards) to scholars of other religions (Hindus, Jains, Christians, Zoroastrians). The concept of Sulh-i-Kul was a result of these later broad-based discussions.
- Statement 2: Correct. The Mahzar was issued in 1579 CE, allowing Akbar to act as the ultimate interpreter of Islamic law (Imam-i-Adil) in certain religious disputes. The Jizya was abolished earlier, in 1564 CE.
