Who among the following was the first Mughal emperor to enforce Sharia law in India?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3 i.e. Aurangzeb.
Aurangzeb is widely considered the Mughal emperor who most rigorously and systematically enforced Sharia law in India. While earlier Mughal emperors, being Muslim rulers, adhered to Islamic principles, Aurangzeb's reign saw a distinct shift towards a more orthodox and strict interpretation and implementation of Sharia across the empire.
He reintroduced the jizya tax on non-Muslims, appointed muhtasibs (censors of public morals) to ensure adherence to Islamic codes, and ordered the destruction of Hindu temples. He also compiled the Fatawa-e-Alamgiri, a comprehensive digest of Islamic law to be applied in his courts. This marked a significant departure from the more syncretic and religiously tolerant policies of his predecessors like Akbar.