The Role of Sultans in Maintaining Security in Delhi Sultanate (602-816 A.H/1206-1414 A.D)

Document Type : Original Article

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Department of History, Faculty of Arts, Cairo University

Abstract

The sultans played a crucial role in establishing security in the Sultanate to ensure stability, which was challenging due to their continued presence in power. They achieved this by implementing various measures, including issuing directives and decrees to regulate the work in the Sultanate and strengthen its security. The sultans emphasized the importance of security and the need to preserve it through appointment decrees issued by the Sultan to appointed governors in the extended regions of the Sultanate. They always urged them to act wisely, comply with the laws and regulations of the region, respect the religious and scholarly elite, hold oppressive officers accountable, investigate them, and address the grievances of slaves, soldiers, and farmers after a fair investigation.
Just as the sultans were keen on constructing walls and fortresses around the cities and along the borders of the Sultanate, to fend off any potential invasion by the Mongols or to suppress any internal uprising threatening the Sultanate's security, they always made sure to renovate and maintain these fortresses. They paid close attention to their defense, bolstered the troops and the appointed officials responsible for maintaining security, and upgraded their weaponry, as these fortifications served as the primary defense to safeguard the Sultanate and its governance system. The sultans particularly focused on fortifying the capital, the seat of power, ensuring its constant security.
Paying attention to the construction and security of roads, and establishing strongholds to ensure safety and protect the traders who act as a vital link between the Sultanate and other countries. Additionally, investing in paving, building, and securing roads significantly contributes to quelling rebellions, protests, and coups within the Sultanate. This allows the Sultan to swiftly respond to such events and promptly dispatch forces to suppress any uprisings.
 

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