Enforcement of Price Control System by Alauddin Khilji:

Alauddin Khilji was a powerful ruler of the Khilji dynasty who ruled Delhi Sultanate from 1296 to 1316 CE. He implemented various economic reforms during his reign, one of which was the enforcement of the price control system.

Reason for Implementation:

The reason behind the implementation of the price control system was the shortage of food grains caused by the continuous wars and natural calamities. The prices of food grains were skyrocketing, and the common people were suffering. To control this situation, Alauddin Khilji introduced the price control system.

Implementation:

To implement the price control system, Alauddin Khilji appointed a market inspector called Shahna-i-Mandi. It was the duty of Shahna-i-Mandi to check the quality and quantity of the commodities sold in the market and ensure that the prices were not higher than the prescribed rates.

The government fixed the prices of various commodities, including food grains, clothes, and other essential items. The prices were announced in the market before the arrival of the goods. The traders were not allowed to sell the commodities at a higher price than the prescribed rates.

Penalties:

If any trader was found violating the rules, the Shahna-i-Mandi could impose heavy penalties on them. The traders could also lose their license to trade.

Impact:

The enforcement of the price control system brought relief to the common people as the prices of essential items were under control. The farmers were also benefited as they could sell their produce at a fair price, and there was no exploitation by the traders.

Conclusion:

The enforcement of the price control system by Alauddin Khilji was an important economic reform that brought relief to the common people. The system was effective in controlling the prices of essential items and ensuring that the traders did not exploit the common people.