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47th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2005

Mughal Social Governance

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In the Mughal administration 'Muhtasib' was-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The Mughal state appointed specialized officers to ensure that the social and moral conduct of the subjects aligned with the state's ethical or religious standards.

Explanation The Muhtasib was an officer-in-charge of public morals. His primary duty was to prevent forbidden practices like the consumption of alcohol, gambling, and other social vices. During the reign of Aurangzeb, the power of Muhtasibs increased significantly as they were tasked with strictly enforcing Sharia law.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Beyond morality, they also acted as market inspectors, ensuring that weights and measures used by traders were accurate to prevent cheating.
Logic 2: They were not military officials but functioned as a bridge between the judicial (Qazi) and executive branches of government.

Active Recall

Question

Why did Aurangzeb appoint Muhtasibs in every province?

Answer

To ensure the subjects lived according to Islamic moral codes and to check the sale of intoxicants in the empire.

Core Insight

The Muhtasib represents the state's attempt to regulate the private and public conduct of its citizens, acting as both a moral guardian and a consumer protector.

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