Understanding the Occupation of Badaun and Iltutmish's Appointment

The question asks about the historical figure who occupied Badaun between A.D. 1197-98 and appointed Iltutmish as its first Muslim Governor. This event is a key moment in the early history of the Delhi Sultanate and the rise of Iltutmish.

Analyzing the Historical Context

Following the defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan in the Second Battle of Tarain (1192), Muhammad Ghori and his generals, particularly Qutbuddin Aibak, began consolidating Ghurid control over northern India. Various regions and important towns were conquered during this period.

• Muhammad Ghori was the overall Ghurid ruler.
• Qutbuddin Aibak was Ghori's trusted general and viceroy in India, responsible for managing the conquered territories and expanding the Ghurid domain.
• Iltutmish was a slave of Aibak who proved his capability and loyalty, leading to his rise in administrative and military ranks.

Examining the Occupation of Badaun (1197-98 A.D.)

Badaun was an important town in northern India. Its occupation was part of the Ghurid expansionist campaigns. Historical sources indicate that Qutbuddin Aibak was actively involved in these campaigns, acting on behalf of Muhammad Ghori. It was Aibak who led the forces that captured strategic locations and established administrative control.

Specific campaigns led by Aibak around this period include the capture of Delhi, Koil (Aligarh), and consolidating control over other areas. The occupation of Badaun falls within this period of Aibak's military and administrative activities in northern India.

The Appointment of Iltutmish as Governor

After the occupation of a territory, it was customary to appoint a trusted official to govern it. Iltutmish, having already proven his worth, was appointed to the significant post of Governor (or Amir) of Badaun. This appointment was a crucial step in Iltutmish's career, providing him with valuable administrative experience and a power base before he eventually succeeded Aibak.

Since Qutbuddin Aibak was the primary figure responsible for consolidating Ghurid power and administering the conquered territories in India during this period, it was within his authority, as Ghori's viceroy, to make such appointments. Muhammad Ghori was the ultimate sovereign, but the direct management and appointment decisions for Indian territories were often handled by Aibak.

Evaluating the Options

• Prithviraj Chauhan: He was defeated by Muhammad Ghori in 1192 A.D., prior to the occupation of Badaun by the Ghurids in 1197-98 A.D. So, he could not have occupied Badaun at this time or appointed a Ghurid governor.
• Maharana Pratap: He was a ruler of Mewar much later, in the 16th century. This option is historically incorrect for the period in question.
• Muhammad Ghori: While he was the ultimate authority, historical accounts attribute the direct campaign and subsequent appointment of Iltutmish as Governor of Badaun to his viceroy, Qutbuddin Aibak, who was managing affairs in India.
• Qutbuddin Aibak: As the commander and administrator of the Ghurid territories in India from 1192 onwards, Aibak was responsible for conquering regions like Badaun in 1197-98 A.D. and appointing governors. Iltutmish was his slave and a rising officer whom Aibak appointed to this important position.

Based on historical evidence, Qutbuddin Aibak was the one who directly occupied Badaun in 1197-98 A.D. and appointed Iltutmish as its first Muslim Governor.

Conclusion

The historical figure responsible for the occupation of Badaun in A.D. 1197-98 and the subsequent appointment of Iltutmish as its first Muslim Governor was Qutbuddin Aibak.

Revision Table: Badaun Occupation & Iltutmish Appointment

Additional Information: Qutbuddin Aibak and Iltutmish

Qutbuddin Aibak:

• Was a slave of Muhammad Ghori who rose to prominence due to his military capabilities.
• Became the viceroy of Ghurid territories in India.
• Founded the Delhi Sultanate in 1206 A.D. after Ghori's death.
• Initiated the construction of the Qutub Minar.

Iltutmish:

• Was a slave of Qutbuddin Aibak.
• Also rose through the ranks based on merit.
• Served as Governor of Badaun.
• Succeeded Aibak and is considered the true consolidator of the Delhi Sultanate.
• Belonged to the Ilbari tribe, hence the dynasty he founded is sometimes called the Ilbari Dynasty or Slave Dynasty (along with Aibak and others).

The relationship between Aibak and Iltutmish highlights the unique aspect of the Slave Dynasty, where capable slaves rose to high positions and even founded dynasties.