The Delhi Sultanate existed from 1206 to 1526 CE. It was marked by a centralised administrative system influenced by Islamic law, specifically Shariat. The Sultans and nobles were responsible for upholding these laws in governance. The administration was systematic and hierarchical, involving various officials and departments.
Central Administration
The central administration was structured and efficient. Key positions included:
- Sultan: The head of state with absolute power.
- Naib: Second in command, equivalent to the Sultan.
- Wazir: Prime Minister, overseeing finance.
- Diwan-i-Ariz: Head of military affairs.
- Diwan-i-Risalat: Managed religious affairs.
- Amir-i-Majlis: Organised state festivals.
- Diwan-i-Insha: Handled correspondence.
Iqta System
The Iqta system was a land distribution method introduced by Muhammad of Ghur and institutionalised by Iltutmish. Key features included:
- Land was divided into Iqtas, assigned to nobles and officers.
- Iqtas were transferable every three to four years.
- Initially a salary substitute, it became hereditary under Firuz Shah Tughlaq.
Local Administration
Local administration was less structured. Provinces were divided into Shiqs, each led by a Shiqdar. Responsibilities included:
- Amil: Collected land revenue.
- Mushrif: Assisted in financial matters.
- Qazi: Oversaw civil affairs.
- Kotwal: Head of police.
- Faujdar: Military head of the fort.
Land Classification
Lands were classified into three types:
- Iqta Land: Assigned to officials as payment.
- Khalisa Land: Directly controlled by the Sultan.
- Inam Land: Granted to religious leaders.
Impact of the Delhi Sultanate
The Delhi Sultanate’s administrative practices influenced later Indian kingdoms. The system was noted for its efficiency and structure. At its height, the Sultanate extended to southern regions like Madurai.
Legal Administration
Islamic law governed the legal framework. The Sultan held ultimate authority. Sharia was applied to Muslims, while Hindus followed their personal laws. The judicial system included:
- Qazis: Local judges overseeing civil matters.
- Ulemas: Scholars interpreting Islamic law.
Role of the Sultan
The Sultan was the apex authority. He commanded the military and oversaw judicial matters. Despite noble influence, he retained ultimate power. The succession was often contested, relying on military strength and noble support.
Nobility and Ulemas
The nobility comprised military commanders and influential figures. The Ulemas, scholars of Islam, played role in religious and political matters. They ensured adherence to Islamic law and provided legitimacy to the ruling class.
Council of Ministers
The council included various departments, each with specific functions:
- Diwan-i-Wizarat: Finance and administration.
- Diwan-i-Ariz: Military organisation.
- Diwan-i-Risalat: Religious and judicial matters.
- Diwan-i-Insha: Correspondence and directives.
Provincial Administration
Provinces, or Iqtas, were governed by Muqtis. Responsibilities included:
- Maintaining law and order.
- Collecting land revenue.
Provinces were further divided into Shiqs and Parganas, each with local officials like Amils and Qazis.
Revenue Administration
Agriculture was the backbone of the economy. The main source of revenue was land tax. Types of taxes included:
- Kharaj: Land tax.
- Charai: Tax on livestock.
- Ghari: Tax on residential properties.
