Q. With reference to the Delhi Sultanate, consider the following statements:

1. The Delhi Sultanate was a theocracy based on the Islamic law
2. All the kings of the Delhi Sultanate owed allegiance to the Caliph
3. The Caliphate had direct intervention in the administration of the Delhi Sultanate

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Answer: Only 2
Notes: The first statement needs your attention. Delhi Sultanate seems to be a theocracy based on Islamic law as stated in the Quran and Shariat. While the state’s religious law derived from the former, its civil law was informed by the latter. All the kings of the Delhi Sultanate recognized the Caliph, shown through gestures like bestowing titles, and having the Caliph's name inscribed on coins. However, the Caliphate had little to no direct intervention in the administration of the Delhi Sultanate at the time. If we look at entire period of Delhi sultanate we find that the policies and practices were shaped by the specific needs and circumstances of the time, demonstrating that it was not strictly theocratic. It is also true that position of the Sultan gained significance after the disintegration of the Caliphate, marking the emergence of independent sovereign rulers who could enact civil and political regulations. Thus, we can best say that Delhi sultanate was a blend of theocracy with political and administrative pragmatism. Hence, statement 1 and 3 are incorrect. Only statement 2 is correct.