Q. During Aurangzeb’s reign, whose duty was it to see that people lived their lives in accordance with the ‘Sharia’?
(a) Ahadis
(b) Mansabhdars
(c) Muhtasibs
(d) Walashuhis
Ans: (c) Muhtasibs
Explanation: During Aurangzeb’s reign, the duty to ensure that people lived their lives in accordance with the ‘Sharia’ (Islamic law) fell upon the Muhtasibs.
Option (c) Muhtasibs is the correct answer. Muhtasibs were officials appointed by the Mughal administration to enforce Islamic law and regulations within the society. Their role was to maintain public morality, monitor markets, enforce Islamic codes of conduct, and ensure compliance with religious practices. They were responsible for regulating social behavior, checking for fraudulent practices, and promoting adherence to Islamic principles in various aspects of daily life. The Muhtasibs played an important role in Aurangzeb’s efforts to promote and enforce religious orthodoxy during his reign.