History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c2.s1.13

c2.s1.13

Sultan Jalāluddīn after sending the vanguard under Arkalī had for some time followed him closely behind. He had then proceeded towards Bhojpur in Farukkhabad district on the western side of the Ganga. After staying there for some time he had crossed the Ganga and ruthlessly punished some Hindus in the land of Kabar (modern Rohilkhand). On his return to Badaon he was joined by Arkalī Khān. The sultan was very much pleased at the brilliant achievements of his son and appointed him governor of Multan. He held a court to deliver judgement on the rebels when he was horrified to see Malik Chhajjū and other great Maliks like Amīr 'Alī Sarjāndār, Malik Alghuchī, son of Malik Targhī, and Malik Tājward being brought before him in fetters and chains, their heads hanging low, their garments soiled. He ordered the prisoners to be unfettered, bathed, and dressed in clean garments. The ungrateful rebels hung their heads in shame when they pondered how treacherous they had been to such a good king. To the astonishment of the countries, however, Jalāluddīn consoled and cheered them up, saying that they had acted rightly in supporting a prince of the dynasty they had served in the past.²¹ He treated them with exemplary kindness and offered them cups of wine as if they were his guests. Ahmad Chap did not fail to remained the king that it was contrary to the principles of good government to treat the rebels with such generosity. Such a treatment would tempt many others to try for the throne and create fresh trouble.²² The king's reply was short and simple. "Oh Ahmad, I also know what kings have done to the rebels (in the past). But I am an old Musalman and am not habituated to shedding the blood of the Musalmans. I am now past seventy and have not killed a single Muwahid (believer in the Oneness of God)."²³ In short the rebels escaped scot free. Malik Chhajjū was sent to Multan where every comfort was provided for him. His fief of Kara was given to the charge of 'Alāuddīn. The trouble having ended the sultan was back in Kilughari on the last day of Muharram 690 (2nd February 1291).²⁴