Chauth: Identifying the Incorrect Statement

The question asks to identify the incorrect statement regarding 'Chauth'. Let's analyze each option:

Statement Analysis

• Option 1: It was first asserted by Shivaji in the later 17th century.

  This statement is correct. Shivaji Maharaj pioneered the systematic collection of Chauth during the latter half of the 17th century.

• Option 2: Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath was the first Maratha to demand Chauth from Subahs of Deccan.

  This statement is incorrect. While Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath played a crucial role in expanding and consolidating Maratha revenue collection, including Chauth in the Deccan, Shivaji Maharaj himself was the originator of the practice much earlier.

• Option 3: According to M.G. Ranade it was charged to provide armed security for a State by Marathas.

  This statement is correct. Historian M.G. Ranade viewed Chauth as a payment for the military protection offered by the Marathas.

• Option 4: G.S. Sardesai compared the Chauth with the subsidiary alliance.

  This statement is correct. Historian G.S. Sardesai drew parallels between the Maratha Chauth and the British subsidiary alliance system, noting similarities in their functional aspects.

Conclusion

Based on the historical context, Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath was not the first Maratha ruler to demand Chauth. Shivaji Maharaj initiated this practice. Therefore, the second statement is the incorrect one.