History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c14.21

c14.21

But 'Alāuddīn's approach to the problem of nobility was different from that of his uncle's. The mutiny of troops near Jalor in 1299 and the revolts of Ikat Khān, 'Umar Khān and Mangu Khān, and the insurrection of Hājī Maula at Delhi in 1300 and 1301, coming one after another as they did in quick succession, very much alarmed the sultan. Even while his attention was wholly engrossed with the siege of Ranthambhor, he discussed with his trustworthy nobles like Malik Ḥamīduddīn, Malik A'izzuddīn, son of 'Alā Dabīr, Malik 'Ainul Mulk Multānī and other wise and experienced ones the causes of the political upheavals. After several days' deliberations it was unanimously concluded that there were four basic causes for the unhappy state of affairs. Firstly, the sultan neglected his people, and did not care to know whether they were prosperous or otherwise.¹¹ Secondly, the unrestricted use of wine encouraged people to hold drink-parties in which they invited their boon companions. It was at such entertainment that conspiracies against the state were hatched. Thirdly, free intercourse and association of barons, their matrimonial and other connections brought them so close to one another that if any one of them was in difficulty, "a hundred others on account of their connection, relationship and attachment to him became his confederates." And lastly, wealth made people contumacious and disloyal, haughty and proud.