History of the Qaraunah Turks in India c11.156.1

c11.156.1

Meanwhile the ‘Centurions’ at Devagiri were restive. They had given refuge to the discontented amirs from Gujarat and had conspired with them to overthrow the power of Muhammad in the Deccan. The impolicy of the Sultan was not a little responsible for such an unhappy turn of affairs. Besides, Malik Maqbūl’s cruel treatment of the amirs on the bank of the Narbada inflamed their resentment further and led them to adopt defensive measures. The weak administration of Nizam-al-Din was unable to reconcile these feuds and the misunderstanding increased, because no one handled the situation with tact and firmness. Distrust prevented the Sultan from adopting a conciliatory attitude and the ‘Centurions’ rightly became apprehensive of their safety. Having restored order in Gujarat, the Sultan turned his attention towards Devagiri and deputed one Zain Bandah⁶⁸ on whom he conferred the title of Majid-al-Din, and the middle son of Thanesari⁶⁹ who were the leaders of mischief-mongers, to hold an inquiry into the cause of disorder. Obviously the object of these notorious deputies was to ascertain the causes of disaffection in Devagiri and arrest and punish those of the amirs who were the leaders of the rebellious party. They set about their extremely delicate task in a manner so tactless and offensive that the Musalmans of Devagiri suspected, not altogether without reason, that their destruction was determined on by the Sultan.