Question

What were the steps taken to ensure that muqtis performed their duties? Why do you think they may have wanted to defy the orders of the Sultans?

Answer 1

1. The duty of the muqtis was to lead military campaigns and maintain law and order in their iqtas.
2. Their office was made not inheritable.
3. They were assigned iqtas for a short period of time before being shifted.
4. Accountants were appointed by the state to check the amount of revenue collected.
5. Care was taken that the muqti collected only the taxes prescribed by the state and that he kept the required number of soldiers.

They may have wanted to defy the orders of the sultans, as they were maintaining their own armies and collecting revenues, which may have provoked them to rebel against the kingdom. Also, the harsh conditions of service can be a reason for defying the orders of the Sultans.