Consider the following statements about Bairam Khan:
1. His appointment as wakil faced no opposition by the other nobles.
2. The nobles accepted the authority of Bairam Khan in an absolute sense.
3. During his regency period second battle of Panipat was fought.
Which of the above given statements is/are correct ?
(a). 1 and 2 only
(b). 2 and 3 only
(c). 3 only
(d). 1 and 3 only
Explanation Statement 1 is correct: Following Humayun’s death and the imminent threat of Hemu’s attack, appointing a regent became necessary. Despite concerns that granting de facto sovereignty to a single noble might disrupt administrative stability, Bairam Khan was appointed wakil without opposition—even from those with strong claims to the position, including his critics.
Statement 2 is not correct: The study of the period of Bairam Khan’s regency indicates that actually the political power was vested in the nobility. The nobles accepted the authority of Bairam Khan in a limited sense. They were not willing to accept his de facto sovereign power. Bairam Khan tried to curb the nobility but he failed to acquire absolute power.
Statement 3 is correct: The Second Battle of Panipat took place during Bairam Khan’s regency, and his strategic wisdom played a crucial role in securing victory for Akbar. The victory at Panipat revived Bairam Khan’s power. He further strengthened his position by distributing titles and jagirs in the Doab and granting promotions and rewards to his loyalists. He also gave important positions to his favourites.
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