On the death of which Muslim ruler of Delhi did the historian Badayuni say, “The king was liberated from his subjects and the subjects from their king”?
Badayuni made this remark after the death of Muhammad bin Tughlaq, a ruler known for his eccentric and harsh administrative experiments. His policies, such as shifting the capital and introducing token currency, created widespread suffering. People felt relieved upon his death because his unpredictable decisions had caused economic hardship, rebellions and instability throughout the empire. His rule became synonymous with disorder. ANSWER: (D) Muhammad bin Tughlaq
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The historian Badayuni’s remark reflects the troubled reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq, whose ambitious yet poorly executed policies brought chaos to the Delhi Sultanate. His forced transfer of population to Daulatabad, introduction of token currency, harsh taxation and constant experiments severely strained the people. Rebellions erupted across the empire and administrative confusion became widespread. His intellect was unquestionable, but his lack of practicality created deep resentment. When he died, both the ruler and the ruled were considered “liberated”—the people from oppression and instability and the king from constant rebellion and administrative failures. His death symbolized the end of a turbulent chapter.