A History of Agriculture in India v2.c55.s9.4

v2.c55.s9.4

The condition of Hindu peasants was never so wretched as during the oppressive rule of Ala-ud-din. It was the result of a deliberate policy of the Sultan to impoverish them. Talking to a Mullah, Ala-ud-din said, ‘Be assured then that the Hindus will never become submissive and obedient till they are reduced to poverty. I have, therefore, given orders that just sufficient shall be left to them from year to year, of corn, milk, and curds, but that they shall not be allowed to accumulate hoards and property.’²