HPAS/Allied Mains 2022 Answer Writing Challenge Day 303: Model Answer

Question: Define the term Sanad? Describe the objectives, nature and extension of Sanad. (8 marks/120 words)

Answer.

Sanad, was a deed granted to the rulers of native princely states in British India confirming them in their ruling position in return for their allegiance to the British Raj. So, Sanad was not complete independence of hill chiefs.

Objective:

• It helped Britishers to establish indirect rule in Hill areas. The Hill chiefs were put under certain obligations in return for their protection. For e.g. Some states like Sirmaur were bound to consult the British government before appointing a Dewan.
• The hill chiefs were required to promote the welfare of their people and to redress grievances of its people.
• There were Strategic & Economic objectives behind granting Sanad like Rulers were to allow free passage to the British merchants in their territory, Rulers were required to build 12 feet road, Rulers have to provide beggar labours to British authority, bigger states were bound to join the British army with their Arms retainers when called upon to do so at the time of war.

Nature:

• Some states were not required to pay tributes like Bilaspur and The New chief to be recognized by British. In case of conflicts between rajas, Britishers were to resolve the conflict. British government can overthrow any heir from his throne in case of non- fulfilment of the obligations mentioned in Sanads.

Extension:

• After British-Gurkha War in 1815, British gave Sanads when they gained control of CIS-Sutlej hills. The 18 states were given independence in their internal matters.
• Bilaspur, Kotkhai, Bhagal, Bushahr, Kumarsain, Balsan, Dhami was restored to their original areas as before the Gorkha occupation.