Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Government dominated by eunuchs and ladies under:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: B
Concept
The final stages of the Mughal Empire saw the collapse of imperial character. Emperors became increasingly disengaged, allowing powerful court factions—often consisting of household staff and family—to take total control.Explanation
During the reign of Ahmad Shah (1748–54), the administration was effectively run by the Queen Mother Udham Bai (Qudsia Begum) and the powerful eunuch Javid Khan. The Emperor himself was noted for his lack of education and indulgence in sensual pursuits, neglecting his imperial duties.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Udham Bai was given the title 'Qibla-i-Alam' and exercised supreme power, while Javid Khan was the de facto controller of the treasury and court appointments.
Logic 2: This era saw the total breakdown of central discipline, leading to the rapid annexation of Mughal territories by regional powers and Afghan invaders like Ahmad Shah Abdali.