Which Mughal ruler abolished the Jizya and Pilgrimage Tax that were based on the religious grounds?

Question

Question

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UP Police SI (दरोगा) Official PYP (Held On: 14 Nov 2021 Shift 3)

Answer 1

The correct answer is Akbar.

Key Points

Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, abolished the Jizya tax in 1564, which was imposed on non-Muslim subjects in Islamic states.
In 1563, Akbar also abolished the pilgrimage tax that was levied on Hindus visiting their places of worship.
These reforms were part of Akbar's policy of religious tolerance, aimed at unifying his diverse empire and fostering harmony among various religious communities.
Akbar's abolition of these taxes reflected his commitment to the principle of Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace), a cornerstone of his administrative policies.
These measures helped Akbar strengthen his rule and gain loyalty from his Hindu subjects, further stabilizing the Mughal Empire.

Additional Information

Jizya Tax:
- It was a tax imposed on non-Muslims (dhimmis) in Islamic states as a form of protection tax.
- While it granted non-Muslims the right to practice their religion, it also signified their subordinate status.
- Its abolition by Akbar was a significant step in creating a secular and inclusive governance system.
Pilgrimage Tax:
- This was a tax imposed on Hindus for visiting their religious sites.
- Its removal by Akbar demonstrated his respect for the religious practices of non-Muslim communities.
Sulh-i-Kul:
- A policy of "universal peace" introduced by Akbar to promote harmony and inclusivity among different religious and ethnic groups within his empire.
- It formed the ideological basis for many of Akbar's reforms, including the abolition of discriminatory taxes.
Akbar’s Religious Policies:
- He encouraged interfaith dialogue and established the Ibadat Khana (House of Worship) for discussions among scholars of various religions.
- Akbar’s efforts to integrate diverse communities extended to his matrimonial alliances with Hindu Rajput families.
Impact of Akbar’s Reforms:
- These policies strengthened the Mughal Empire by fostering loyalty among non-Muslim subjects.
- They also set a precedent for secular governance in India, influencing future rulers and administrations.