Unraveling the Diwani
Adalat: A Key Element of Colonial Justice
Introduction: The establishment of
Diwani Adalat in 1772 marked a significant development in the judicial system
of colonial India. This article delves into the intricacies of Diwani Adalat,
shedding light on its purpose, structure, and functions.
- Understanding
Diwani Adalat:
- Diwani
Adalat, also known as the Revenue Court, was not a criminal court but
rather a civil court.
- It
was established by the British East India Company following the
acquisition of the Diwani rights from the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II in
1765.
- Dispensing
Civil Justice:
- Contrary
to statement (A), Diwani Adalat primarily dealt with revenue matters,
land disputes, and other civil cases related to the collection of
revenue.
- It
was responsible for the administration of revenue matters and the
regulation of land revenue collection.
- Judicial
Administration:
- The
Diwani Adalat was presided over by Indian officers, usually Qazis and
Muftis, who were well-versed in Islamic law (Sharia).
- European
district collectors did not preside over Diwani Adalat sessions,
debunking statement (B).
- Impact
and Significance:
- The
establishment of Diwani Adalat was a pivotal step in the consolidation of
British authority in India.
- It
facilitated the transition from Mughal-era revenue administration to
British-controlled revenue management, laying the groundwork for colonial
economic exploitation.
- Legacy
and Critique:
- While
Diwani Adalat played a crucial role in revenue administration, it also
faced criticism for its perceived biases and injustices.
- Critics
argue that the court system favored British interests and often
marginalized Indian litigants, leading to social and economic
disparities.
Conclusion: The Diwani Adalat
stands as a testament to the complex interplay between colonial power dynamics
and indigenous legal systems in India. While it represented a significant shift
in revenue administration, its legacy continues to be debated, underscoring the
enduring impact of colonial rule on Indian society and justice.
- What
was the primary function of the Diwani Adalat established in 1772 in
colonial India?
- (a)
To administer criminal justice
- (b)
To preside over land revenue matters and civil disputes
- (c)
To regulate trade and commerce
- (d)
To enforce British laws and regulations
- Correct
answer: (b) To preside over land revenue matters and civil disputes
- Who
presided over the sessions of the Diwani Adalat?
- (a)
European district collectors
- (b)
British-appointed judges
- (c)
Indian officers, usually Qazis and Muftis
- (d)
British governors-general
- Correct
answer: (c) Indian officers, usually Qazis and Muftis
- What
type of cases did the Diwani Adalat primarily deal with?
- (a)
Criminal cases related to theft and assault
- (b)
Civil cases related to revenue matters and land disputes
- (c)
Maritime disputes and trade regulations
- (d)
Religious disputes and temple management
- Correct
answer: (b) Civil cases related to revenue matters and land disputes
- What
was the significance of the Diwani Adalat in colonial India?
- (a)
It enforced British cultural norms and traditions
- (b)
It facilitated the transition from Mughal-era revenue administration to
British-controlled revenue management
- (c)
It promoted indigenous legal systems and customs
- (d)
It played a key role in military conquests and expansion
- Correct
answer: (b) It facilitated the transition from Mughal-era revenue
administration to British-controlled revenue management
- Which
statement best summarizes the legacy of the Diwani Adalat?
- (a)
It was universally praised for its impartiality and fairness
- (b)
It faced criticism for favoring British interests and marginalizing
Indian litigants
- (c)
It led to the resurgence of traditional Indian legal practices
- (d)
It had little impact on colonial governance and administration
- Correct
answer: (b) It faced criticism for favoring British interests and
marginalizing Indian litigants
