Introduction:

The Harappa civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, was one of the most advanced ancient civilizations that existed around 2500 BCE. Archeologists have extensively studied the remains and artifacts of Harappa to understand its social structure and the presence of a central authority. However, there are different arguments put forward by archeologists regarding the existence and nature of a central authority in Harappa.

Arguments:

Lack of Evidence:
Some archeologists argue that the lack of concrete evidence, such as inscriptions or monuments representing a central authority, suggests the absence of a strong centralized power in Harappa. They believe that the city might have been governed by a more decentralized system, with power distributed among various local leaders or councils.

City Planning and Infrastructure:
Others argue that the sophisticated city planning and infrastructure of Harappa indicate the presence of a central authority. The layout of the cities, with well-planned grids, uniform brick sizes, and advanced drainage systems, suggests a high level of coordination and control. They believe that such planning would have required a centralized governance system to oversee and enforce these structures.

Social Organization:
The presence of a highly organized society, as reflected in the uniformity of weights, measures, and trade practices, also supports the existence of a central authority. Archeologists argue that the level of standardization observed in Harappa could only have been achieved through a centralized administration that regulated and monitored trade and commerce.

Uniformity in Artifacts:
The uniformity in artifacts found across different Harappan sites, such as pottery, seals, and figurines, suggests a common cultural identity and a centralized authority responsible for their production. Archeologists argue that the presence of standardized artifacts could be an indication of a centralized control over manufacturing and trade activities.

Decentralized Authority:
On the other hand, some archeologists believe that the absence of grand palaces or royal tombs in Harappa indicates a more decentralized authority. They argue that if a central authority existed, there would have been evidence of grand structures associated with rulers or a ruling class. Instead, the absence of such structures suggests a more egalitarian society with power distributed among multiple centers.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, archeologists have presented different arguments regarding the central authority of Harappa. While some believe that the city's advanced planning, uniformity in artifacts, and social organization indicate the presence of a centralized governance system, others argue for a more decentralized authority. The debate continues, and further archaeological discoveries and research may shed more light on the nature of authority in the Harappa civilization.