Which one of the following statements is not correct about Panchayats...
Panchayats in the Mughal Society were local self-governing bodies that played an important role in the administration of villages. They were responsible for maintaining law and order, resolving disputes, and managing the economic affairs of the village. However, one of the statements about Panchayats in the Mughal Society is not correct.
b) They derived their funds from contributions made by individuals to a common financial pool.
This statement is not correct. Panchayats in the Mughal Society did not derive their funds from contributions made by individuals to a common financial pool. In fact, the Panchayats were not involved in collecting funds or managing finances. The financial resources of the Panchayats came from the revenue collected by the Mughal administration.
Explanation:
1. Role of Panchayats in the Mughal Society:
- Panchayats in the Mughal Society were responsible for the governance and administration of villages.
- They played a crucial role in maintaining law and order, resolving disputes, and managing the economic affairs of the village.
- The headman, known as muqaddam, was the central figure in the Panchayat system.
2. Appointment and Tenure of Headmen:
- Panchayats were headed by a headman known as muqaddam, who was selected by the village elders.
- The headman held office as long as he enjoyed the confidence of the village elders.
- The appointment of the headman was not hereditary and was based on his competence and leadership qualities.
3. Sources of Funding:
- Panchayats did not derive their funds from contributions made by individuals to a common financial pool.
- The financial resources of the Panchayats came from the revenue collected by the Mughal administration.
- The Mughal administration collected revenue from various sources such as land taxes, customs duties, and other levies.
4. Binding Nature of Decisions:
- The decisions taken by the Panchayats were binding on the members of the village.
- The Panchayats had the authority to enforce their decisions and maintain law and order in the village.
- However, the decisions of the Panchayats could be appealed in higher courts or to the Mughal administration if necessary.
In conclusion, the correct statement about Panchayats in the Mughal Society is that they were not funded by contributions made by individuals to a common financial pool. The Panchayats derived their funds from the revenue collected by the Mughal administration.