Prasanna – Page 6 – PSEB Solutions

PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Picture/Poster Based

December 21, 2024December 20, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 10th Class English Book Solutions English Reading Comprehension Picture/Poster Based Exercise Questions and Answers, Notes.

PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Picture/Poster Based

1. Look at this poster and answer the questions given below :
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 1

Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
This poster is designed about
(a) the need for daily walk
(b) the need for regular exercise
(c) the need for heathy diet
(d) the need for pure environment.
Answer:
(b) the need for regular exercise

Question 2.
How can we keep the doctor away ?
(a) By having medicine without fail.
(b) By taking rich diet.
(c) By doing exercise every day.
(d) By getting up early in the morning.
Answer:
(c) By doing exercise every day.

Question 3.
If we exercise regularly, we will become
(a) healthy
(b) wealthy
(c) wise
(d) all of these three.
Answer:
(d) all of these three.

Question 4.
What do we gain from regular exercise ?
(a) A sound body
(b) A sound mind.
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Neither (a) nor (b).
Answer:
(c) Both (a) and (b)

Question 5.
Which word is the antonym of ‘healthy’ ?
(a) fit
(b) unfit
(c) misfit
(d) none of these three.
Answer:
(b) unfit

2. Look at this poster and answer the questions given below :
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 2
Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
This poster highlights the need for
(a) blood donation
(b) eye donation
(c) kidney donation
(d) all of these three.
Answer:
(b) eye donation

Question 2.
We can help the blind by donating them our eyes.
(a) live the life
(b) see the world
(c) earn their living
(d) any of these three.
Answer:
(b) see the world

Question 3.
How can our eyes see even after we have left the world ?
(a) By giving our eyes to a blind person.
(b) By taking care of our eyes.
(c) Both (a) and (b).
(d) Neither (a) nor (b).
Answer:
(a) By giving our eyes to a blind person.

Question 4.
How can we gain more information about eye donation ?
(a) By contacting eye bank.
(b) By contacting blood bank.
(c) By contacting organ bank.
(d) None of these three.
Answer:
(a) By contacting eye bank.

Question 5.
Which word is the antonym of ‘more’ ?
(a) much
(b) less
(c) most
(d) least.
Answer:
(b) less

3. Look at this poster and answer the questions given below
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 3
Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
This poster is drafted to
(a) create awareness among people
(b) indicate the need to maintain neat environment
(c) indicate the need to keep the surroundings dry and hygiene
(d) all of these three.
Answer:
(d) all of these three.

Question 2.
What is ‘Chikungunya’ ?
(a) A deadly virus
(b) A deadly disease.
(c) A deadly weapon.
(d) Any of these three.
Answer:
(c) A deadly weapon.

Question 3.
‘Chikungunya’ is caused by
(a) flies
(b) germs
(c) mosquitoes
(d) bats.
Answer:
(c) mosquitoes

Question 4.
What is always better than cure ?
(a) Precaution.
(b) Prevention.
(c) Proclamation.
(d) Promotion.
Answer:
(b) Prevention.

Question 5.
This message is issued by
(a) World Health Organisation
(b) Human Welfare Association
(c) Human Resources
(d) All of these three.
Answer:
(b) Human Welfare Association

4. Look at these pictures and answer the questions given below :
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 4
Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
What was Amit very fond of ?
(a) He was very fond of flying kites.
(b) He was very fond of playing cricket.
(c) He was very fond of playing marbles.
(d) He was very fond of reading books
Answer:
(a) He was very fond of flying kites.

Question 2.
Where was he standing one day when he was flying kites ?
(a) On the walls of his neighbour’s house.
(b) On the walls of his house.
(c) On the roof of his house.
(d) On the roof of his neighbour’s house.
Answer:
(b) On the walls of his house.

Question 3.
What happened when he saw his kite going very high in the sky ?
(a) He became very happy and excited.
(b) He forgot that he was standing on a wall.
(c) He lost his balance and fell down.
(d) All of these three.
Answer:
(d) All of these three.

Question 4.
Thank God he did not fall to the side of the
(a) roof
(b) street
(c) wall
(d) none of these three.
Answer:
(b) street

Question 5.
He broke both his
(a) left arm and left leg
(b) right arm and right leg
(c) left arm and right leg
(d) right arm and left leg.
Answer:
(b) right arm and right leg

5. Look at these pictures and answer the questions given below :
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 5
Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
Why did Ram’s mother send him to the post office one day?
(a) To post her letter
(b) To get some postage stamps.
(c) To get her parcel.
(d) To deposit his fees.
Answer:
(b) To get some postage stamps.

Question 2.
How did Ram go to the post office ?
(a) He went there on his foot.
(b) He went there on his bicycle.
(c) He went there on his motorcycle.
(d) He went there on a rickshaw.
Answer:
(b) He went there on his bicycle.

Question 3.
What did he see when he reached the post office ?
(a) He saw there a long queue of people.
(b) He saw the post office closed.
(c) He saw the postman absent.
(d) None of these three.
Answer:
(a) He saw there a long queue of people.

Question 4.
When Ram had bought the postage stamps,
(a) he came to the place where he had placed his cycle
(b) he found his cycle missing
(c) both (a) and (b)
(d) neither (a) nor (b).
Answer:
(c) both (a) and (b)

Question 5.
How did Mother react when she learnt about the loss of the cycle ?
(a) She reboked him for his carelessness.
(b) She praised him for his negligence.
(c) She asked him to be careful in future.
(d) All of these three.
Answer:
(a) She reboked him for his carelessness.

6. Look at this chart and answer the questions given below :
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 6
Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
In olden times who were fond of trees and gardens ?
(a) Potters.
(b) Musicians.
(c) Kings.
(d) Villagers.
Answer:
(c) Kings.

Question 2.
The Kings grew trees
(a) all along roads of their state
(b) around the buildings of their state
(c) in and around their palaces
(d) all of these three.
Answer:
(d) all of these three.

Question 3.
In modern times take care of roads and parks.
(a) state governments
(b) local governments
(c) common people
(d) rich people.
Answer:
(b) local governments

Question 4.
Since local governments pay no attenion to the growing of trees, there are very trees along the roads in the cities.
(a) few
(b) a few
(c) the few
(d) fewer.
Answer:
(a) few

Question 5.
What will happen in future if no attention is now paid to tree plantation ?
(a) No trees will be left.
(b) It will be all barren everywhere.
(c) Both (a) and (b).
(d) Neither (a) nor (b).
Answer:
(c) Both (a) and (b).

7. Look at this picture and answer the questions given below :

PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 7

Choose the correct option to answer each question

Question 1.
The man in this picture is ………..
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) Jawahar Lai Nehru
(c) Narendra Modi
(d) APJ Abdul Kalam.
Answer:
(d) APJ Abdul Kalam.

Question 2.
He was the ………. of India.
(a) former Health Minister
(b) former President
(c) former Prime Minister
(d) former Home Minister.
Answer:
(b) former President

Question 3.
This great scientist was known as the ………….
(a) Missile man of India
(b) Gun man of India
(c) Fire man of India
(d) Rifle man of India.
Answer:
(a) Missile man of India

Question 4.
He was the …… of several prestigious awards.
(a) receive
(b) received
(c) recipient
(d) receipt.
Answer:
(c) recipient

Question 5.
He was honoured with Bharat Ratna which is ………..
(a) Ireland’s highest civilian honour
(b) India’s highest civilian honour
(c) America’s highest civilian honour
(d) England’s highest civilian honour.
Answer:
(b) India’s highest civilian honour

8. Look at this picture and answer the questions given below :
PSEB 10th Class English Reading Comprehension Unseen Picture Poster Based 8

Choose the correct option to answer each question :

Question 1.
The two goat met in the middle of a ……
(a) bridge
(b) forest
(c) road
(d) market.
Answer:
(a) bridge

Question 2.
Why could the two goats not cross the bridge at the same time ?
(a) Because the bridge was broken.
(b) Because the bridge was narrow.
(c) Because the bridge was broad.
(d) Because the bridge was very old.
Answer:
(b) Because the bridge was narrow.

Question 3.
Why did the goats begin to fight ?
(a) Because they were not friendly.
(b) Because they were foolish.
(c) Because neither of them was ready to make way for the other.
(d) All of these three.
Answer:
(d) All of these three.

Question 4.
What happened to the goats ?
(a) They fell down into the river.
(b) Both of them drowned in the river.
(c) Both (a) and (b).
(d) Neither (a) nor (b).
Answer:
(c) Both (a) and (b).

Question 5.
The moral taught here is
(a) Might is right
(b) Unity is strength
(c) Don’t be foolish
(d) Greed is a curse.
Answer:
(c) Don’t be foolish

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 10 Guru Gobind Singh Ji: The Foundation of Khalsa, His Battles and Personality

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 10 Guru Gobind Singh Ji: The Foundation of Khalsa, His Battles and Personality Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 10 Guru Gobind Singh Ji: The Foundation of Khalsa, His Battles and Personality

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What difficulties were faced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji when he attained the Gurgaddi?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji had to face many internal and external difficulties when he ascended the Gurgaddi in 1675 A.D. At that time the age of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was only 9 years, but he had an uphill task before him. First, at that time Aurangzeb was the Mughal ruler of India. He was a very bigot emperor. He could not tolerate the existence of any other religion except Islam. That is why he gave the order of martyrdom to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. It is necessary to curtail the cruelties of the Aurangzeb. Secondly, the Hill Chiefs due to their. vested interests were against Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Thirdly, Dhirmalias and Ramraias were conspiring against Guru Ji as they failed to get the Gurgaddi. Fourthly, at that time the Masand system became defunct due to many evils. The Masands had become corrupt. They felt happy looting the Sikhs. Fifthly, the Hindus had lost all their enthusiasm due to centuries of slavery. Consequently, it had become vital to reorganize the Sikh society.

Question 2.
Explain any five battles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
1. Battle of Bhangani, 1688 A.D.: On 22nd September 1688 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji attacked the Hill chiefs at Bhangani. Pir Buddhu Shah of Sadhaura rendered valuable help to Guru Gobind Singh Ji in this battle. The armies of Hill Chiefs were forced to flee the field. This grand victory indeed infused a new spirit among the Sikhs.

2. Battle ofNadaun, 1690 A.D.: After the battle of Bhangani, the Hill Chiefs refused to pay the annual Khiraj (tax) to the Mughals. Therefore, an army under the command of Alif Khan was sent against the Hill Chiefs. He attacked the army of Bhim Chand at Nadaun on March 20, 1690 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji sided with Bhim Chand in this battle. Their joint army pushed back the Mughal army.

3. First Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib, 1701 A.D.: Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of IGialsa Panth at Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1699 A.D. As a result, people started coming to the fold of Sikhism in a large number. The Hill Chiefs saw in it, a great danger to their freedom. So, Bhim Chand, the ruler of Kahlur asked Guru Gobind Singh Ji to vacate the fort of Anandpur Sahib. When Guru Gobind Singh Ji declined to do so, Bhim Chand along with a few other Hill Chiefs invaded the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1701 A.D. When they got no success they made peace with Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

4. Second Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib, 1794 A.D.: The Hill Chiefs wanted to take revenge from Guru Gobind Singh Ji for their insult due to continuous defeats. Thus, they attacked the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib for the second time, in collaboration with Mughal forces in 1704 A.D. The Sikhs put up strong resistance from within the fort. The royal army took false vows to, assure Guru Gobind Singh Ji that they would not cause any harm if he left the fort. So Guru Gobind Singh Ji decided to leave the fort.

5. Battle of Chamkaur Sahib, 1704 A.D.: Guru Gobind Singh Ji reached the fortress of Chamkaur Sahib along with his 40 Sikhs on 21st December 1704 A.D. No sooner, did they reach there, a huge Mughal army besieged them on 22nd December 1704 A.D. A pitched battle took place. In this battle, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji, the two elder sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji fought with an unparalleled example of bravery and ultimately became martyrs.

Question 3.
Write a short note on the battle of Bhangani.
Or
Describe Guru Gobind Singh’s battle of Bhangani and also explain its importance.
Answer:
The Battle of Bhangani was the first battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Hill Chiefs. It took place on September 22, 1688 A.D. Many factors were responsible for this battle. First, the Hill Chiefs were alarmed to see the military activities of Guru Gobind Singh. Their freedom seemed to be jeopardized. Secondly, the Hill Chiefs deemed the reforms of Guru Gobind Singh Ji an interference in their religious matters. Thirdly, these Hill Chiefs used to harass the Sikh Sangat. Fourthly, the Mughal government was also instigating these Chiefs to take steps against Guru Ji.

Fifthly, the allied forces of Hill Chiefs under the command of Bhim Chand, the ruler of Kahlur and Fateh Shah the ruler of Kashmir attacked Guru Gobind Singh’s army at Bhangani on September 22, 1688 A.D. Pir Buddhu Shah of Sadhaura rendered valuable help to Guru Gobind Singh Ji in this battle. The Sikhs bravely resisted the allied forces and became victorious in this battle. This victory boosted the morale of the Sikhs and Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s fame reached far and wide. The Hill Chiefs deemed it wise to shun Guru Ji’s opposition and establish amicable relations with him.

Question 4.
Write a short note on the battle of Nadaun.
Answer:
After the battle of Bhangani, Guru Gobind Singh Ji left Paonta Sahib and went back to Sri Ana/idpur Sahib. With a view to consolidating his position, Guru Gobind Singh Ji got four forts Anandgarh, Lohgarh, Fatehgarh and Kesgarh constructed. At this time Aurangzeb was busy in the battles of the South. On finding this golden opportunity, the rulers of the Hills stopped paying annual revenue to the Mughals. When Aurangzeb came to know about it, he commanded Mian Khan, the governor of Jammu, to teach these chiefs a lesson. Mian Khan sent a huge Mughal force under the command of his general Alif Khan to take action against the Hill Chiefs. At this critical juncture, Bhim Chand requested Guru Sahib for help.

Guru Sahib accepted the request and went with a band of selected Sikhs to help him. On 20th March 1690 A.D. the battle started between the forces of Bhim Chand and Alif Khan at Nadaun, about 30 kilometers away from Kangra. In this battle, Kirpal Chand the ruler of Kangra sided with Alif Khan. Guru Sahib and his Sikhs displayed such feats of bravery in this battle that Alif Khan and his soldiers were forced to flee from the battlefield. Thus, by virtue of Guru Sahib’s cooperation Bhim Chand and his fellow Hill Chiefs emerged victoriously. After this battle, the Hill Chiefs betrayed Guru Sahib and once again compromised with the Mughals.

Question 5.
Why did Guru Gobind Singh create the Khalsa?
Or
Give a brief description of the circumstances responsible for the creation of Khalsa.
Or
Give in brief the causes of the creation of Khalsa.
Or
Explain the reasons of the creation of the Khalsa Panth in 1699 A.D.
Answer:
1. Tyrannical Rule of the Mughals: The Mughal emperor Aurangzeb was very fanatic. He crossed all the limits. He got many famous Hindu temples demolished in the country. He had imposed several restrictions on the performance of their religious ceremonies. Aurangzeb reimposed the Jaziya tax. He butchered a large number of non-Muslims, who refused to embrace Islam. On top of all this, he got Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred. Therefore, Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa to put an end to the growing cruelties of the Mughals.

2. Treachery of Hill Chiefs : Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to put an end to the Mughal empire with the help of Hill Chiefs. But Guru Gobind Singh Ji felt that the Hill Chiefs could not be trusted any more. Therefore, Guru Gobind Singh Ji decided to prepare such soldiers as might stoutly resist the Mughals. As a result, Guru Gobind Singh Ji brought the Khalsa into existence.

3. Shackles of Caste System : The caste system had been in vogue for centuries in Indian society. The Indian society was divided into several castes and sub-castes. Jhe higher-caste people treated the low-caste people like beasts. This caste system was, in fact, eating into the very vitals of Indian society. Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to organize a society that would be free from the shackles of caste system and socially well-knit.

4. Defective Masand System : The defective Masand system proved an important factor responsible for the creation of the Khalsa. With, the passage of time, Masands forgot their basic ideals, became corrupt and arrogant. Instead of leading the Sikhs, they started looting them. They began to say that they were the makers of Gurus. Many influential Masand’s had set up their separate Gurgaddis. In order to get rid of these Masands, Guru Sahib thought of organizing the Sikhs into a new form. So a drastic remedy was needed.

5. Mission of Guru Gobind Singh Ji : Guru Gobind Singh Ji wrote in the ‘Bachitar Natak\ “I assumed birth for the purpose of spreading Dharma (faith), saving the saints and exterpating all tyrants. For this purpose resort to the sword is legitimate.” To realize this mission Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa.

Question 6.
Write a brief note on the creation of Khalsa Panth.
Or
When and how was Khalsa founded?
Answer:
On the day of Baisakhi on 30th March, 1699 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji held a congregation at Kesgarh at Sri Anandpur Sahib. 80000 Sikhs attended
the congregation. When all the people sat down, Guru Ji appeared on the stage. With his sword unsheathed he spoke, “Is there any Sikh who would sacrifice his life for Dharma?” When Guru Gobind Sahib repeated his call for the third time, Bhai Daya Ram Ji offered himself for sacrifice. Guru Ji took him to a nearby tent. Guru Ji made Daya Ram sit there and returned with his sword dripping with the blood. Guru Ji demanded another head. This time Bhai Dharam Das Ji stood up. This process was repeated three more times.

In order to comply with Guru Ji’s desire, Bhai Mohkam Chand Ji, Sahib Chand Ji and Bhai Himmat Rai Ji presented themselves for sacrifice. What Guru Gobind Singh Ji had done with them in the tent is better known to him. In this way, Guru Gobind Singh Ji selected the ‘Panj Payaras’, the five beloveds. Guru Sahib gave the Nectar of Immortality (Khande Ka Pahul) to the five beloved ones and then begged to be baptised by them. For this reason Guru Gobind Singh Ji is also called ‘Aape Gur Chela’. In this way, Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of the Khalsa.

Question 7.
When was the Khalsa created by Guru Gobind Singh Ji? What are its main principles?
Or
Explain the main principles of the Khalsa.
Or
Make a brief mention of the main principles of the Khalsa.
Or
Write the main principles of the Khalsa Panth founded by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji created Khalsa on March 30, 1699 A.D. Its main principles were :

For every person who wishes to join the Khalsa Panth, it is essential to drink the Nectar of Immortality (Sikh baptism).
Every Khalsa will use ‘Singh’ with his name and Khalsa woman ‘Kaur’ with her name.
Every Khalsa will worship no god or goddess but only one God.
Every Khalsa will wear the five emblems i.e. Kes (hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (iron bangle), Kachha (underwear), and Kirpan (sword).
Every Khalsa will sacrifice his all for the protection of his Dharma and country.
Every Khalsa will wake up at dawn, take a bath and recite Gurbani.
Every Khalsa will earn his livelihood by the sweat of his brow and donate l/10th of his earnings for the spread of Dharma.
Every Khalsa will wear weapons and be ready to fight for righteous causes.
The Khalsa while meeting each other will hail, ‘Wahe Guru Ji Ka Khalsa, Wahe Guru Ji Ki Fateh.
No Khalsa will smoke, make use of intoxicants and have extra-marital relations.
No Khalsa will believe in the caste system and think in terms of high and low.

Question 8.
What were the important effects of the creation of Khalsa Panth?
Or
What were the five important effects of the creation of Khalsa in Sikh History?
Or
Study the importance of the creation of Khalsa.
Answer:
The creation of the Khalsa is considered to be an important event in Sikh history. It was a turning point not only in the history of Punjab but also in the history of India. In fact, the creation of the Khalsa had far-reaching consequences.

1. Increase in the number of Sikhs: With, the establishment of the Khalsa, there was an appreciable increase in the number of the Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh Ji not only gave Khande-da-Pahul (Nectar of Immortality) to a large number of Sikhs but authorized any five ‘payaras’ to admit any person into the fold of the Khalsa after giving him Khande-da-Pahul. Consequently, the number of Khalsa increased day by day. Its fame, too, spread far and wide.

2. Creation of an Ideal Society: By creating the Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of an ideal society^. He established ideal moral standards for everyone. He advised to help fellowmen in trouble and not to take wine and other intoxicants. Members of the Khalsa brotherhood were to consider their previous castes erased and deem themselves brothers belonging to one family.

3. End of Masand System and Sects which were against Khalsa: After Guru Hargobind Ji, the Masand system was afflicted with many evils. So, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa, he gave them no place in it. Guru Gobind Singh Ji enjoined on the Sikhs to have no concern with them.

4. Uplift of the Down-trodden People: As a result of the creation of the Khalsa, the down-trodden people were uplifted. Prior to this, the ‘shudras’ and the people of other low castes were looked down upon and were badly treated. Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave them equal status with the high castes. This infused a new spirit among the people of low castes.

5. Rise of Political Power of the Sikhs: By creating the Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh Ji infused a spirit of unique bravery and fearlessness among the Sikhs. They made innumerable sacrifices but did not falter in their Dharma. At last, the Sikhs’ dream came true and they succeeded in establishing their independent Misls in Punjab. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in establishing an independent Sikh State. It was the result of the indefatigable efforts of the Khalsa.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on the First Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
After the creation of the Khalsa in 1699 A.D., a large number of people began to join Sikhism. The increasing power of Guru Gobind Singh Ji alarmed the Hill Chiefs. Raja Bhim Chand of Kahlur, in whose territory Sri Anandpur Sahib was situated asked Guru Gobind Singh Ji to vacate Sri Anandpur Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh Ji clearly refused to comply with his demand. He clarified that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji had made full payment for the land when he founded this town. At this Bhim Chand formed a joint front with the cooperation of other Hill Chiefs.

The allied forces under the command of Raja Bhim Chand besieged the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1701 A.D. This siege continued for many days. Though Guru Gobind Singh Ji had a very limited number of soldiers inside the fort, yet he was able to offer stiff resistance to the aggressors. When the Hill Chiefs saw that there were no chances of their success they made peace with Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It was only a tactic of Hill Chiefs to have time to launch a more vigorous attack on Guru Gobind Singh Ji.’

Question 10.
Write a brief note on the Second Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
Though the Hill Chiefs had made a peace treaty with Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1701 A.D., yet they wanted to take revenge from him for their humiliation. With this end in view, they sought the help of the Mughals. The allied army besieged the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1704 A.D. Though it tried several times to enter the fort yet all their efforts were frustrated by the brave Sikh warriors. As the siege of the fort got prolonged, the Sikhs felt a shortage of provisions. When the patience of the Sikhs began to waver due to hunger, they requested Guru Gobind Singh Ji to leave the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh Ji advised the Sikhs to wait for a few more days and to have patience.

Not accepting this advice, 40 Sikhs gave Bedawa (Document of Denunciation) to Guru Ji and left the fort. On the other hand, the combined forces were also tired of the prolonged siege of the fort. In the event of defeat, they were to face infamy. So they played a trick. They took oaths on the Quran and the cow to assure Guru Gobind Singh Ji that they would not harm him if he vacated the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib. But as soon as Guru Gobind Singh Ji came out of the fort, the joint army fell upon the Sikhs.

Question 11.
Give a brief account of the battle of Chamkaur Sahib.
Answer:
After Guru Gobind Singh Ji left the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib, the Mughal army was fast chasing him. Guru Gobind Singh Ji took shelter in a Garhi (mud fortress) in Chamkaur Sahib along with his 40 Sikhs. Soon, thousands of Mughal soldiers laid siege to the Garhi. The battle of Chamkaur Sahib was fought in 1704 A.D. It was bloody battle. In this battle, the two elder sons of Guru Ji, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji exhibited such feats of warfare and bravery that the Mughals were taken aback. Both of them caused havoc among the allied ranks and ultimately laid down their lives. It is impossible to find any other example of such rare bravery as the Sikhs showed in this battle under the command of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. On the request of five Sikhs, Guru Ji decided to leave the Garhi of Chamkaur Sahib. While leaving the Garhi, Guru Gobind Singh Ji challenged the Mughal army by clapping loudly, but it could cause no harm to him.

Question 12.
Write a brief note on the battle of Khidrana (Sir Mukatsar Sahib).
Answer:
The battle of Khidrana was the last and decisive battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals. Pacing several hardships in the forests of Machhiwara, Guru Ji reached Khidrana- When the Mughal army came to know about it, the Faujdar of Sirhind, Wazir Khan planned to attack Guru Ji at Khidrana. Taking a vast army, he attacked the army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Khidrana on December 29, 1705 A.D. The Sikhs exhibited bravery in this battle also.

They launched such a fierce attack on the Mughal army that it fled from the field. In this way, in the last battle Guru Gobind Singh got a glorious victory. The 40 Sikhs who had parted company with Guru Ji in the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib also fought to their last .in this battle. Impressed by their sacrifice and on the request of their dying leader Mahan Singh, Guru Ji tore away the Bedawa (Document of Denunciation) and blessed them with the boon of salvation (Mukti). In this way Khidrana got the name of Sri Mukatsar Sahib.

Question 13.
How did Guru Gobind Singh Ji settle the sectarian divisions and external dangers to Sikhism?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded Khalsa Panth in 1699 A.D. to deal with the sectarian divisions and external dangers to Sikhism. Guru Ji declared that all his Sikhs were his Khalsa and they were directly related to him. So any Sikh who did not directly relate himself with Guru Ji, was not counted as a Sikh. In this way – Masand’s ceased to be the middlemen. Minas, Dhirmalias and Ramraias were expelled from the Sikh Panth. In order to deal with the external dangers, Guru Gobind Singh ordered all the Sikhs to remain equipped with weapons. Self¬protection and protection of others was deemed to be the first duty of the Sikhs. That is why the Sikhs could face the Mughal invasions daringly. In this way Sikh Panth came up as a new force.

Question 14.
What do you know about the literary activities of Guru Gobind Singh Describe the literary activities of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Evaluate the literary achievements of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s contribution in the field of literature is invaluable. He himself was a poet and a literateur of high order. Most of his literature was lost in the Sirsa river at the time of his retreat from Sri Anandpur Sahib to Chamkaur Sahib. Still the literature that survived and reached us, is sufficient proof of his being a great scholar. Guru Ji used Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit, Persian and Arabic languages in his writings. His great works are Jaap Sahib, Bachitar Natak, Akal Ustat, Zafarnama, Chandi Di Var etc. These writings are so forceful that they even arouse the dormant energies of depressed people. Guru Gobind Singh Ji had accorded patronage to 52 top-class poets in his Durbar. Among these, the names of Senapati, Nand Lai, Gopal and Udai Rai are very prominent.

Question 15.
What is Zafarnama?
Or
Write a note on Zafarnama.
Answer:
Zafarnama is a letter of victory written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Aurangzeb. It was written in Persian. It was written from Dina Kangar. It was sent through Bhai Dayala to Aurangzeb who was in Deccan at that time. In this letter Guru Gobind Singh Jiboldly explained about his oppression and injustice and breaking of oaths taken on the Quran by his officials. He accused Aurangzeb of betrayal of faith. Guru Ji writes, Aurangzeb you call yourself a religious man, but you don’t have a grain of truth in you. You don’t have any faith in Khuda (God) and Mohammad.

Is it bravery that your army of lakhs, invades our fort and starving Sikhs? You and your army officials, all are traitors and cowards. Though you are a king of kings and a renowned army commander, you are miles and miles away from religion. You have one thing on the lips and quite another in the heart.” This letter of Guru Gobind Singh Ji deeply impressed the mind of Aurangzeb. He sent a message to Guru Gobind Singh Ji for a personal meeting. But Guru Sahib was yet on his way when Aurangzeb expired.

Question 16.
What is the importance of social reforms of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the history?
Answer:
The social reforms of Guru Gobind Singh Ji have great significance. He created Khalsa Panth and brought about a social revolution. By joining it, people of low castes got an equal status with the people of high castes. By doing so, Guru Sahib shattered the age-old shackles of caste system. Women were also administered Amrit and made equal to men. Guru Gobind Singh Ji told his followers to shun alcoholic drinks and other intoxicants. He ordered to snap relations with those who committed infanticide of female children. Guru Ji condemned sati system and purdah system in strong words and declared that such evils had no place in Khalsa Panth. Guru Gobind Singh Ji asked the Sikhs to give full respect to women. In fact, Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave birth to an ideal society.

Question 17.
“Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a builder par-excellence.” Do you agree to this argument?
Answer:
Undoubtedly, Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great organiser. The Mughal government of Aurangzeb was not at all prepared to tolerate any movement, especially the Sikh movement. It brought about the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Masand. system among the Sikhs had become thoroughly corrupt. The Hindus had been crestfallen since long. The Hill Chiefs had connived with the Mughal government due to their vested interests. Despite these adverse factors Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave a proof of his organising ability by creating Khalsa Panth. Really it was a great wonder that infused a new spirit among people. They became great warriors and were ready to sacrifice everything for the sake of their religion. They did not heave a sigh of relief until they put an end to the Mughal and Afghan rule in Punjab and established their independent rule. It was indeed a great contribution of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 18.
Mention any five characteristics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s personality.
Answer:
1. High Character : Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a man of high character. Immoral practices like falsehood, treachery and deceit were alien to his nature. Whether it be peace or war, he always stuck to truth. He had no greed for wealth. In order to lure him to Islam, the Mughals opened up coffers of money but Guru Gobind Singh Ji was not tempted at all.

2. Embodiment of Sacrifices : Guru Gobind Singh Ji was an embodiment of sacrifices. At the age of 9, he exhorted his father Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji to sacrifice himself. For the protection of Dharma, he sacrificed all the comforts of his life. While fighting against injustice, Guru Gobind Singh Ji sacrificed his four sons, his mother and thousands of Sikhs. In fact, the sacrifice, which Guru Gobind Singh Ji made has no parallel in the history of the world.

3. As a Scholar: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a poet and literateur of exceptional order. Guru Gobind Singh Ji made use of languages like Arabic, Persian, Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit etc. Among his compositions Jaap Sahib, Bachitar Natak, Zafarnama, Chandi Di Var and Akal Ustat are very prominent. These compositions are so thrilling that they had the power to infuse a new life even among the dead. Being a scholar himself Guru Gobind Singh Ji greatly respected other scholars. He had given patronage to 52 top ranking poets in his Darbar.

4. As a Warrior and General: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great warrior and efficient general. He was adept in horse riding and making use of arms. He always commanded his army himself in the battlefield. He always observed moral codes even in battlefields. He never attacked an unarmed and fleeing soldier.

5. As a Religious Leader: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great religious leader. There is, no doubt, about it that Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent a major part of his life in battles, but the aim of these battles was to protect Dharma and extirpate the tyrant. Guru Sahib created the Khalsa Panth to promote religious feelings only. Guru Sahib had advised every Khalsa to get up before sunrise, take a bath and recite Gurbani. They should not worship different deities, but one God only. They should lead a simple and pious life.

Question 19.
Mention briefly the main events of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s relations with the Mughals.
Or
Give a brief account of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s relations with the Mughals.
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji created Khalsa in 1699 A.D. to root out the tyrants and save dharma. The Hill Chiefs were alarmed. Aurangzeb too could not tolerate the growing influence of the Sikhs in the Punjab. He sent the Governors of Sirhind and Lahore to help the Hill Chiefs. They besieged the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1703-04 A.D. to get it vacated from Guru Gobind Singh Ji. When they saw no ray of hope to get success, they informed Guru Ji that they would not harm him if he vacated the fort. In order to assure Guru Ji they took a vow by the Quran also. But as soon as Guru Gobind Singh Ji came out of the fort they attacked.

At Chamkaur Sahib Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave a tough fight to the Mughal army. Here, two elder sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji became martyrs while fighting. In 1705 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave the Mughals a crushing defeat at Khidrana or Sri Mukatsar Sahib. Bahadur Shah succeeded to the throne in 1707 A.D. after the death of Aurangzeb. He established amicable illations with Guru Ji. In 1708 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji immersed in Eternal Light at Nanded.

Essay Type Questions:

Early Career of Guru Gobind Singh Ji:

Question 1.
What do you know about the early life of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji, was one of the greatest personalities not only of Panjab but also of the world. He led the Sikhism with much ability and vigour that it is very difficult to find any other example. The foundation of Khalsa led to a new epoch in Sikhism. A brief description of early career of Guru Gobind Singh Ji is as under :

1. Birth and Parentage: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born on 22nd December, 1666 A.D. at Patna. He was the only son of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. His mother’s name was Gujari. He was first named Gobind Das or Gobind Rai. After the creation of Khalsa in 1699 A.D. his name was changed to Gobind Singh. At the time of Gobind Das’s birth, a Muslim faqir Bhikhan Shah had predicted: “This child would grow into a great man and lead the people.” His prediction proved to be true.

2. Childhood : Gobind Das spent the first six years of his childhood at Patna Sahib. Right from his childhood, he possessed the qualities of becoming a leader. Like other children, he did not play with toys, but with bows and arrows and other weapons. He would divide his companions into groups and then arrange mock-battle shows. He would act as a judge and settle his companions’ disputes. He was very fearless from his childhood. Kirpal Chand, the maternal uncle of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, was his virtual guardian, when he was a minor.

3. Education : In the beginning of 1672 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with his family came to settle at Sri Anandpur Sahib. Here Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made a special arrangement for Gobind Das’s education. He got the knowledge of Gurmukhi from Bhai Sahib Chand, Sanskrit from Pt. Harjas and Persian and Arabic from Qazi Pir Mohammad. He learnt riding and use of weapons from a Rajput named Bajjar Singh.

4. Assumption of Guruship : Having grown sick of Aurangzeb’s cruelties, a group of Kashmiri Pandits with a woeful appeal approached Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in May 1675 A.D. at Sri Anandpur Sahib. On hearing their harrowing tale, Guru Sahib fell thinking for a while. He decided to sacrifice his life. Before proceeding to Delhi in July 1675 A.D., Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, bestowed the Guruship on Gobind Das. Thus, Gobind Das became the tenth and the last Guru of the Sikhs at the age of 9. He held the Guruship till 1708 A.D.

5. Army Organisation : After assuming Guruship in 1675 A.D., Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared that those Sikhs, who had four sons should get one of their sons recruited in the Guru Ji army for the service of Sikhism. Along with this, Guru Sahib also advised the Sikhs to offer him horses and weapons in place of money. The Sikhs complied with this advice of Guru Gobind Sahib with great enthusiasm. Soon a large number of Sikhs enlistee! themselves in the Guru Gobind Sahib’s army and enormous weapons and horses were collected.

6. Adoption of Royal Symbols : Like his grandfather Guru Hargobind Ji, Guru Gobind Singh Ji too adopted royal symbols. He would decorate ‘kalgi’ (aigrette) on his turban. He began to make use of throne and royal umbrella. Besides, Guru Sahib, like the kings, had a special drum made, which was named ‘Ranjit Nagara’.

7. Invitation from Nahan : On seeing, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s activities, the ruler of Kahlur, Bhim Chand grew jealous of Guru Gobind Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh Ji could not afford to fight with him at that time. Guru Gobind Sahib was just thinking of shifting to some other place when the king of Nahan, Medni Parkash, invited him to Nahan. Guru Gobind Singh Ji at once accepted this invitation and went with his family from Makhowal to Nahan. Here, at a lonely but beautiful place on the bank of river Jamuna, Guru Gobind Sahib got constructed a fort which was named, Paonta Sahib. The word Paonta means a foothold ‘or a place to stay on’.

8. Activities at Paonta Sahib : At Paonta Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji started giving military training to the Sikhs. They were made skilful in the art of horse-riding and musketry. On the recommendation of Pir Buddhu Shah of Sadhaura, he enlisted 500 Pathans in his army. Guru Gobind Singh Ji created high class literature at Paonta Sahib. Guru Sahib had given patronage to 52 eminent poets in his court. The purpose of Guru Sahib’s literary compositions was to sing praises of. the Almighty and to generate a new enthusiasm among the Sikhs to stand up against injustice and tyranny. Guru Ji’s contribution to literature is unique.

Battles of Pre-Khalsa and Post-Khalsa Period:

Question 2.
Decribe the important battles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Give a brief account of the pre-Khalsa and post-Khalsa battles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
What were the causes of the pre-Khalsa and post-Khalsa battles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji held the Guruship from 1675 to 1708 A.D. He had to fight many battles against the Hill Chiefs and the Mughals. During this period, the Sikhs not only showed the feats of their bravery in these battles, but they were also able to shake the very roots of the powerful Mughal Empire. The battles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji are divided into two phases—the battles of pre-Khalsa period and the battles of post-Khalsa period.

Battles of Pre-Khalsa Period:

1. Battle of Bhangani 1688 A.D.: The Hill Chiefs were alarmed to see the military preparations of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Consequently, they forged a joint front against Guru Gobind Singh Ji under the combined leadership of Bhim Chand, the ruler of Kahlur and Fateh Shah, the ruler of Srinagar. On September 22,1688 A.D. the joint forces of the Hill Chiefs attacked the army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Bhangani. A pitched battle ensued. Pir Buddhu Shah of Sadhaura rendered valuable help to Guru Ji in this battle with his forces. The army of Hill Chiefs could not stand ground against enthusiastic Sikhs, though the latter were less in number. As a result the Hill Chiefs were forced to flee the field. This grand victory indeed infused a new spirit among the Sikhs.

2. Battle of Nadaun 1690 A.D. : After suffering a humiliating defeat in the battle of Bhangani, the Hill Chiefs entered into a friendly alliance with Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They refused to pay the annual Khiraj (tax) to the Mughals. Therefore, an army under the command of Alif Khan was sent against the Hill Chiefs. He attacked the army of Bhim Chand (leader of the Hill Chiefs) at Nadaun on, March 20, 1690 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji sided with Bhim Chand in this battle. Their joint army pushed back the Mughal army. Alif Khan had to run away from the battlefield to save his life. After this battle, the Hill Chiefs again made a treaty with the Mughals.

3. Some Mughal Expeditions 1694-96 A.D.: During the period from 1694 to 1696 A.D. the Mughals sent military expeditions under Khanzada, Hussain Khan, Jujhar Singh and Prince Muazzam against Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Somehow or the other, these military expeditions failed in their mission.

Battles of Post-Khalsa Period:

4. First Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib, 1701 A.D. : Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of Khalsa Panth at Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1699 A.D. As a result, people started coming to the fold of Sikhism in a large number. The Hill Chiefs saw in it a great danger to their freedom. So, Bhim Chand, the ruler of Kahlur asked Guru Ji to quit. When he refused the royal army sieged the fort. The Sikhs put up strong resistance from within the fort, but the seizure prolonged and the Sikhs felt the shortage of food in the fort. Consequently, some of the Sikhs requested Guru Ji to vacate the fort. When Guru Ji refused to do so, 40 Sikhs wrote a Bedawa and left Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s company. In spite of this, Guru Gobind Singh Ji continued fighting. The royal army played a trick to attain success. They took false vows to assure Guru Ji that they would not cause any harm, if he left the fort. So Guru Ji decided to leave the fort.

5. Battle of Nirmoh 1702 A.D.: After the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji went to Nirmoh, a village near Kiratpur Sahib. Here Bhim Chand, joining hands With the Mughal forces, attacked the army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1702 A.D. The Sikhs fought these joint forces very bravely. At last, the Sikhs emerged victorious in this battle.

6. Battle of Basoli 1702 A.D.: Dharam Pal, the ruler of Basoli, invited Guru Gobind Singh Ji to visit him. Guru Sahib accepted the invitation and came to Basoli. The forces of Bhim Chand which had been chasing Guru Sahib, attacked Basoli, but they had to eat a humble pie.

7. Second Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib 1704 A.D.: The Hill Chiefs wanted to avenge their insult of continuous defeats at the hands of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. So, they with the help of Mughal forces, once again attacked Sri Anandpur Sahib in May 1704 A.D. Their joint forces made several efforts to enter the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib, but the Sikh warriors frustrated all their efforts. This siege was prolonged and continued till December 1704 A.D. Owing to this prolongation, the provisions inside the fort began to run short. When starvation began to tell upon the patience of the Sikhs, some of them suggested Guru Ji to leave the fort.

Guru Sahib advised them to have patience for some more time. But 40 Sikhs wrote Bedawa (Document of Denunciation) and deserted the Guru. On the other hand, the joint forces were also upset over the prolonged siege. In the event of defeat, they would have to face a great humiliation. So they played a trick. They swore by the Quran and the cow and assured Guru Sahib that no harm would be done to him, if he left the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib. However, Guru Sahib did not believe such false oaths but at the insistence of Mata Gujari Ji and some other Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji left Sri Anandpur Sahib on 20th December. 1704 A.D.

8. Battle of Shahi Tibbi, 1704 : As soon as Guru Gobind Singh Ji came out of the fort, the royal army pursued them hotly. Consequently, there was confusion and consternation. A battle took place at Shahi Tibbi, where Bhai Udai Singh put up strong resistance along with his 50 companions and ultimately became martyrs.

9. Battle of Chamkaur Sahib, 1704 A.D.: Guru Gobind Singh Ji reached the fortress of Chamkaur Sahib along with his 40 Sikhs. No sooner, did they reach there, a huge Mughal army besieged them. A pitched battle took place. In this battle, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji, the two elder sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji fought with unparalleled example of bravery. Both of them killed a large number of enemy soldiers and ultimately became martyrs. Guru Gobind Singh Ji could escape with only three of his Sikhs. Before leaving Guru Gobind Singh Ji challenged the Mughal forces and clapped loudly as a signal.

10. Battle of Khidrana, 1705 A.D.: On December 29,1705 A.D., Wazir Khan, the Mughal Faujdar of Sirhind, attacked Guru Gobind Singh Ji with a large army. In this battle, the Sikhs showed rare feats of bravery. They fought so daringly that the Mughals could not stand before them and fled away. Those 40 Sikhs, who had parted company with Guru Ji in the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib, also fought in this battle and became martyrs. Guru Gobind Singh Ji accorded them the boon of Mukti (salvation) on the request of their leader Maha Singh. As a result, Khidrana acquired the name of Sri Muktsar Sahib. It was the last battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals.

Creation Of The Khalsa:

Question 3.
What were the circumstances that led to the creation of the Khalsa in 1699 A.D.? Also point out its significance.
Or
What were circumstances leading to the creation of the the Khalsa? Describe its historical importance.
Or
Describe the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Describe the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Examine its significance.
Or
Discuss in detail the foundation, its main principles and significance of the Khalsa.
Or
What were the circumstances leading to the foundation of the Khalsa? Study its main principles and significance.
Or
What were the circumstances leading to the creation of the Khalsa? Describe its historical importance.
Or
What were the causes leading to the creation of the Khalsa Panth? What are its significances?
Or
Explain the reasons and importance of the creation of the Khalsa Panth.
Or
Write down the causes and importance of the establishment of the Khalsa Panth.
Answer:
The greatest achievement of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the creation of the Khalsa on the day of Baisakhi in 1699 A.D. With the creation of the Khalsa such a brave and self-sacrificing community of saint soldiers was born, which completely uprooted the powerful empires of the Mughals and the Afghans in Punjab. That is why the creation of the Khalsa is considered as the beginning of a new era. According to famous writer Harbans Singh,
“It was a grand Creative deed of history which wrought revolutionary change in men’s minds.”

Why was the Khalsa Created?

1. Tyrannical Rule of the Mughals : Since the days of Jahangir the cruelties of the Mughals had been increasing day-by-day. Aurangzeb crossed all the limits. He got many famous Hindu temples demolished in the country. He ha’d imposed several restrictions on the performance of theinreligious ceremonies. The Mughal emperor, Akbar had waived off the Jaziya tax, which had been imposed on the Hindus, but Aurangzeb reimposed this, hateful tax. He issued orders to demolish the Sikh Gurdwaras. He butchered a large number of non-Muslims, who refused to embrace Islam. On top of all this he got Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred on 11th November, 1675 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa to put an end to the growing cruelties of the Mughals.

2. Treachery of Hill Chiefs : Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to put an end to the Mughal empire with the help of Hill Chiefs. But Guru Gobind Singh Ji felt that the Hill Chiefs could not be trusted any more. Therefore, Guru , Gobind Singh Ji decided to prepare such soldiers as might stoutly resist the Mughals. As a result, Guru Gobind Singh Ji brough the Khalsa into existence.

3. Shackles of Caste System : The caste system had been in vogue for 4 centuries in the Indian society. The Indian society was divided into several castes and sub-castes. The higher-caste people treated the low-caste people like beasts. He, who violated these caste rules, was ostracised from his caste. This caste-system was, in fact, eating into the very vitals of the Indian society. All the Sikh Gurus before Guru Gobind Singh Ji had dealt a severe blow at the caste-system through Sangat and Pangat institutions but it had not yet been totally smashed. Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to organise the society which would be free from the shackles of caste system and socially well-knit.

4. Defective Masand System : The defective Masand system proved an important factor responsible for the creation of the Khalsa. With the passage of time, Masands forgot their basic ideals, became corrupt and arrogant. Instead of leading the Sikhs, they started looting them. They began to say that they were the makers of Gurus. Many influential Masands had set up their separate Gurgaddis. In order to get rid of these Masands, Guru Sahib thought of organising the Sikhs into a new form. So a drastic remedy was needed.

5. Hereditary Nature of Guruship : Guru Amar Das Ji had made Guruship hereditary. It created many problems. He, who did not get Guruship, formed his separate sect and started opposing the Guru. In a bid to get Guruship, Prithi Chand, Dhir Mai and Ram Rai hatched conspiracies with the Mughals against Gurus. So, Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to set up a society, which had no place for Minas, Dhirmalias and Ramraias.

6. Mission of Guru Gobind Singh Ji : Guru Gobind Singh Ji wrote in the ‘Bachitar Natak’. “I assumed birth for the purpose of spreading Dharma (faith), saving the saints and exterpating all tyrants. For this purpose resort to the sword is legitimate.” To realize this mission Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa.

How was the Khalsa Created?

On the day of Baisakhi on 30th March, 1699 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji held a congregation at Kesgarh at Sri Anandpur Sahib. 80000 Sikhs attended the congregation. When all the people sat down, Guru Ji’ appeared on the stage. With his sword unsheathed he spoke, “Is there any Sikh who would sacrifice his „ life for Dharma?” When Guru Gobind Sahib repeated his call for the third time, Bhai Daya Ram Ji offered himself for sacrifice. Guru Ji took him to a nearby tent. Guru Ji made Daya Ram sit there and returned with his sword dripping with the blood. Guru Ji demanded another head. This time Bhai Dharam Das Ji stood up.

This process was repeated three more times. In order to comply with Guru Ji’s desire, Bhai Mohkam Chand Ji, Sahib Chand Ji and Bhai Himmat Rai Ji presented themselves for sacrifice. What Guru Gobind Singh Ji had done with them in the tent is better known to him. In this way, Guru Gobind Singh Ji selected the ‘Panj Payaras’, the five beloveds. Guru Sahib gave the Nectar of Immortality (Khande Ka Pahul) to the five beloved ones and then begged to be baptised by them. For this reason Guru Gobind Singh Ji is also called ‘Aape Gur Chela’. In this way, Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of the Khalsa.

Principles of the Khalsa:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid down certain principles for the Khalsa. It was obligatory for every Khalsa to obey these principles. The following were the main principles :

For every person who wishes to join the Khalsa Panth, it is essential to drink the Nectar of Immortality (Sikh baptism).
Every Khalsa man will use ‘Singh’ as suffix with his name and Khalsa woman ‘Kaur’ with her name.
Every Khalsa will worship only one God and no other god or goddess.
Every Khalsa will wear the five emblems i.e. Kes (hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (iron bangle), Kachha (underwear) and Kirpan (sword).
Every Khalsa will sacrifice his all for the protection of his Dharma and country.
Every Khalsa will wake up at dawn, take a bath and recite Gurbani.
Every Khalsa will earn his livelihood by the sweat of his brow and donate l/10th of his earnings for the spread of Dharma.
Every Khalsa will wear weapons and be ready to fight for righteous causes.
The Khalsa while meeting each other will hail, ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh’.
No Khalsa will smoke, make use of intoxicants and have extra-marital relations.
No Khalsa will believe in caste system and think in terms of high and low.

Importance of the Creation of the Khalsa:

The creation of the Khalsa is considered to be an important event in the Sikh history. It was a turning point not only in the history of Punjab, but also in the history of India. In fact, the creation of the Khalsa had far-reaching consequences.

1. Increase in the number of Sikhs : With the establishment of the Khalsa, there was an appreciable increase in the number of the Sikhs. Guru, Gobind Singh Ji not only gave Khande-da-Pahul (Nectar of Immortality) to a large number of Sikhs, but authorised any five ‘payaras’ to admit any person into the fold of the Khalsa after giving him Khande-da-Pahul. Consequently, the number of the Khalsa increased day by day. Its fame, too, spread far and wide.

2. Creation of an Ideal Society : By creating the Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of an ideal society. He established ideal moral standards for everyone. He advised to practise truth, to live by honest means, to abstain from covetousness, to avoid immoral association with women, to act according to the Guru Granth Sahib, to share the same kitchen, to help fellowmen in trouble and not to take wine and other intoxicants. Members of the Khalsa brotherhood were to consider their previous castes erased and deem themselves brothers belonging to one family. In the words of Dr. Inderpal Singh,
“The grandeur of Khalsa is that it is above all notions of caste and creed and speaks only of universal brotherhood.”

3. End of Masand System and Sects which were against Khalsa : After Guru Hargobind Sahib, the Masand system was afflicted with many evils. So, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa, he gave them no place in it. Guru Gobind Singh Ji enjoined on the Sikhs to have no concern with them.

4. Change in the Tone of National Character : With the creation of the Khalsa, a tremendous change was effected in the whole tone of national character. Even those people, who had been considered as dregs of humanity were changed, as if by magic. The sweepers, barbers, confectioners, who had never touched the sword and whose generations had lived as grovelling slaves of the so-called higher classes, became under the stimulating leadership of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, doughty warriors, who never shrank from fear and who were ready to rush into the jaws of death at the bidding of their Guru.

5. Uplift of the Down-trodden People : As a result of the creation of the Khalsa, the down-trodden people were uplifted. Prior to this the people of low castes were looked down upon and were badly treated. Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave them equal status with the high castes. This infused a new spirit among the people of low castes. They played a vital role in the battles fought against the Mughals and the Afghans under the command of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and other Sikh leaders.

6. Democracy in the Khalsa Panth : In 1699 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji requested the five beloved ones to give him the Nectar of Immortality. To do so was a radical step on the part of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared that any five Khalsas assembled at a place could give the Nectar of Immortality to other Sikhs and admit them into the Khalsa fold. Thus, Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave a new direction to the Indian Society.

7. Rise of Political Power of the Sikhs: By creating the Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh Ji infused a spirit of unique bravery and fearlessness among the Sikhs. They made innumerable sacrifices, but did not falter in their Dharma. At last the Sikhs’ dream came true and they succeeded in establishing their independent Misls in Punjab. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in establishing an independent Sikh State. It was the result of indefatigable efforts of the Khalsa. Dr. G. S. Dhillon aptly says, “Creation of the Khalsa was a unique phenomenon in the annals of mankind.”

Question 4.
Make an evaluation of the character and personality of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Discuss the character and achievements of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Illustrate historically the multi-dimensional personality of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Write in detail about Guru Gobind Singh Ji as a Man, as a Soldier and as a Religious Leader.
Or
What do you know about Guru Gobind Singh Ji as a Man, as a Soldier, as a Scholar and as a Saint?
Or
Give an account of the career and achievements of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s personality had multi-faceted qualities which is beyond the power of a humble writer like me to describe. He was a versatile embodiment of sacrifice, high-class poet, great warrior and general enemy of the tyrant, beneficent, a great social reformer, advocate of democratic principles, matchless organiser and great prophet. Undoubtedly, Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a perfect Guru incarn’ate.

As a Man:

1. Physical Appearance : Guru Gobind Singh Ji possessed a very impressive and charming personality. He had a tall stature, fair complexion and stout body. His face had a glow and bright eyes. His tongue was superlatively sweet. His robes were extremely beautiful and he was always equipped with arms. He invariably held a white hawk in his right hand. He would ride a beautiful steed while going out.

2. Householder: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was an obedient son, thoughtful father and an ideal husband. Against his own wish, but in compliance with his mother’s desire, he vacated the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib. After it, he had to face several hardships, but he never grumbled or complained of it. Guru Gobind Singh Ji brought up his sons very carefully.

3. High Character : Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a man of high character. Immoral practices like falsehood, treachery and deceit were alien to his nature. Whether it be peace or war, he always stuck to truth. He had no greed for wealth. In order to lure him to Islam, the Mughals opened up coffers of money but Guru Gobind Singh Ji was not tempted at all.

4. Embodiment of Sacrifices : Guru Gobind Singh Ji was an embodiment of sacrifices. At the age of 9, he exhorted his father Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji to sacrifice himself. For the protection of Dharma, he sacrificed all the comforts of his life. While fighting against injustice, Guru Gobind Singh Ji sacrificed his four sons,
his mother and thousands of Sikhs. In fact, the sacrifice, which Guru Gobind • Singh Ji made has no parallel in the history of the world.

As a Scholar:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a poet and litterateur of exceptional order. Guru Gobind Singh Ji made use of languages like Arabic, Persian, Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit etc. Among his compositions Jaap Sahib, Bachitar Natak, Zafarnama, Chandi Di Var and Akal Ustat are very prominent. These compositions are so thrilling that they had the power to infuse a new life even among the dead. Being a scholar himself Guru Gobind Singh Ji greatly respected other scholars. He had given patronage to 52 top ranking poets in his Darbar. Among these the names of Senapat, Nand Lai, Hans Ram, Gopal and Udai Rai may be prominently mentioned. Devindra Kumar is quite right when he says,
“He was a poet par excellence.”

As a Warrior and General:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great warrior and efficient general. He was adept in horse riding and making use of arms. He always commanded his army himself in the battlefield. He always observed moral codes even in battlefields. He never attacked an unarmed and fleeing soldier.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was also a great general. In the, battle of Bhangani, Guru Gobind Singh Ji with a handful of his soldiers inflicted a crushing defeat on the combined forces of Hill Chiefs. The same was the case in the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib. The bravery with which Guru Golnnd Singh Ji with his forty Sikhs fought against the heavy Mughal forces in the battle of Chamkaur Sahib has no parallel in the history of the world. In the battle of Khidrana too the number ‘ of his soldiers was far less than that of Mughal forces. However, the Sikhs inflicted such heavy losses on the Mughals that they not only fled from-the battlefield, but also could not dare to fight against Guru Gobind Sahib any more.

As a Religious Leader:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great religious leader. There is, no doubt, about it that Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent a major part of his life in battles, but the aim of these battles was to protect Dharma and extirpate the tyrant. Guru Sahib created the Khalsa Panth to promote religious feelings only. Guru Sahib had advised every Khalsa to get up before sunrise, take a bath and recite Gurbani. They should not worship different deities, but one God only. They should lead a simple and pious life. One gets the evidence of his religious greatness when one finds how on receiving the news of his sons martyrdom, he got up at once and thanked God that his sons had laid down their lives for the promotion of religious cause. Dr. I. B. Banerjee,
“Whatever else he might have been, Guru Gobind Singh was first and foremost a great religious leader.”

As a Social Reformer:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great social reformer. His social reforms are very significant. He.radicalized the society by creating the Khalsa Panth. In it, the people of low-castes were placed at the same level as those of high-castes. By doing so, Guru Sahib broke the centuries old shackles of casteism. Women were baptised too and made equal with men. Guru Sahib advised his disciples to shun intoxicants like liquor, ‘bhang’ etc. Guru Ji commanded them not to have any relations with those who killed new-born girls. Guru Sahib strongly condemned sati and purdah evils and declared that such evils had no place in Khalsa society. Guru Ji enjoined on the Sikhs to give full respect to women. In fact, Guru Gobind Singh Ji created an ideal society.

As an Organiser:

Guru Gobind Singh’Ji was a top-class organiser. At that time, the Mughal Govt, under Aurangzeb was not prepared to brook any movement especially the Sikh movement. He had martyred Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The Masand system among the Sikhs had become very corrupt. The Hindus had been demoralised for a pretty long time. The Hill Chiefs had sided with the Mughal Govt, for selfish motives. Despite such adverse elements, Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave an evidence of his organizational skill by creating the Khalsa. Really, it was a great achievement. It infused a new spirit into the people. They becarrffe great warriors and got ready to sacrifice their everything in the name of religion. Famous writer, Prof. Madanjit Kaur is quite right when she says,
“Guru Gobind Singh’s contributions had left imprints of deep impact on the canvas of Indian history and world civilisation.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What difficulties were faced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji when he attained the Gurgaddi?
Answer:

At the time of assumption of Guruship the age of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was only 9 years.
Aurangzeb was a very bigot emperor. He could not tolerate the existence of any other religion except Islam,
It was necessary to curtail the cruelties of Aurangzeb.
The Hill Chiefs due to their vested interests were against Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
The Masands had become corrupt. It was necessary to deal sternly with them.

Question 2.
What kind of education was given to Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was taught Gurmukhi by Bhai Sahib Chand, Sanskrit by Pt. Harjas, Persian and Arabic by Qazi Pir Mohammad.
He got religious education from Mata. Gujari Ji and father Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
He was given warfare training by Bhai Bajar Singh.

Question 3.
What is the importance of Paonta Sahib?
Answer:
In 1685 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji got built a fort named Paonta Sahib. Paonta meant a place to stay in. Guru Ji stayed at this place from 1685 to 1688 A.D. Guru Ji decided here to infuse a new spirit among the Sikhs and to put an end to the tyrannical rule of the Mughals with these objects. Here Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave a new direction to the warfare and literary activities.

Question 4.
Why did Bhim Chand not like the presence of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib?
Answer:

He could not tolerate the rapidly increasing power of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
He could not tolerate the foundation of Khalsa laid by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib’in 1699 A.D.
Bhim Chand had asked Guru Gobind Singh Ji to vacate Sri Anandpur Sahib. But the Guru Ji had refused to do so.

Question 5.
Write a short, note on the battle of Bhangani.
Or
Describe Guru Gobind Singh’s battle of Bhangani and also explain its importance.
Answer:
Many factors were responsible for the battle of Bhangani.

The Hill Chiefs were alarmed to see the military activities of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
The Hill Chiefs deemed the reforms of Guru Gobind Singh Ji .an interference in their religious matters,
Bhim Chand, the ruler of Kahlur, and Fateh Shah, the ruler of Kashmir attacked Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s army at Bhangani on September 22, 1688 A.D. The Sikhs bravely resisted the allied forces and became victorious in this battle.

Question 6.
Write a short note on the battle of Nadaun.
Answer:
After the battle of Bhangani, the Hill Chiefs established friendly relations with Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They stopped paying annual revenue to the Mughals. Mughal force Was sent under the command of Alif Khan to take action against the Hill Chiefs. At this critical juncture, Bhim Chand requested Guru Sahib for help. Guru Sahib accepted the request. On 20th March 1690 A.D. the battle of Nadaun was started. In this battle, the Mughals were defeated.

Question 7.
Why did Guru Gobind Singh Ji create the Khalsa?
Or
Give a brief description of the circumstances responsible for the creation of the Khalsa.
Or
Give in brief the causes of the creation of Khalsa.
Or
What were the three main causes of the creation of Khalsa?
Or
What were the three main causes of the origin of Khalsa?
Or
Write down the causes of the foundation of the Khalsa Panth.
Answer:

The tyranny of the Mughals was increasing day by day. He started converting non-Muslims to Islam at the point of the sword,
Guru Gobind Singh Ji needed such soldiers who could daringly fight against the Mughals.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to create a society, where there was no room for high or low.
He wanted to do away with the corrupt Masand system and organize the Sikhs in a new way.

Question 8.
What does Guru Gobind Singh Ji say about Masands?
Answer:

They had become very corrupt and careless.
They had become very greedy.
They had become very licentious.
They had become very haughty.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on the creation of Khalsa Panth.
Or
When, where, and how was Khalsa founded?
Or
How was the Khalsa sect created?
Answer:
The foundation of Khalsa Panth was laid by Guru Gobind Singh Ji on the 30th of March, 1699 A.D., on the eve of Baisakhi at Kesgarh Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib. Guru Ji appeared on the stage with his sword unsheathed and spoke, “Is there any Sikh who would sacrifice his life for Dharma”. When Guru Sahib repeated his call for the third time, Bhai Daya Ram Ji offered himself for sacrifice. Subsequently Bhai Dharam Das Ji, Bhai Mohkam Chand Ji, Bhai Sahib Chand Ji and Bhai Himmat Rai Ji presented themselves for sacrifice. In this way, Guru Gobind Singh Ji selected the ‘Panj Payaras’, and thus laid the foundation of the Khalsa.

Question 10.
When was the Khalsa created by Guru Gobind Singh Ji? What are its main principles?
Or
What were the main principles of the Khalsa Panth?
Or
Make a brief mention of the main principles of the Khalsa.
Or
Write any three principles of the Khalsa Panth founded by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:

For every person who wishes to join the Khalsa Panth, it is essential to drink the Nectar of Immortality,
Every Khalsa man will use ‘Singh’ with his name and Khalsa woman ‘Kaur’ with her name.
Every Khalsa will worship no god or goddess but only one God.
Every Khalsa will wear the five emblems i. e. Kes, Kangha, Kara, Kachha and Kirpan.
Every Khalsa will sacrifice his all for the protection of his Dharma and country.

Question 11.
What was the importance of the creation of Khalsa Panth in Sikh History?
Or
Study the importance of the creation of Khalsa.
Or
What were the three main results of the creation of Khalsa Panth?
Answer:

With its establishment, a large number of people began to join Sikhism,
It also led to the establishment of an ideal society,
There was no room for the concept of high and low in it. All the castes were treated equally,
Guru Gobind Singh Ji instilled a new spirit among the Sikhs by creating Khalsa. The weakest of the weak among the Sikhs became a lion in spirit,
To tolerate injustice was now considered a sin by every Sikh.

Question 12.
Write a brief note on the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
The increasing power of Guru Gobind Singh Ji alarmed the Hill Chiefs. Raja Bhim Chand of Kahlur asked Guru Gobind Singh Ji to vacate Sri Anandpur Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh Ji clearly refused to comply with his demand. He clarified that Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib had made foil payment for the land when he founded this town. At this Bhim Chand formed a joint front with the cooperation of other Hill Chiefs. The allied forces under the command of Raja Bhim Chand besieged the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1701 A.D. When the Hill Chiefs saw that there were no chances of their success they made peace.

Question 13.
Write a brief note on the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
The allied army of Hill Chiefs and the Mughals besieged the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1704 A.D. As the siege of the fort got prolonged, 40 Sikhs gave Bedawa to Guru Ji and left the fort. So, the allied army played a trick. They took oaths oh the Quran and the cow to assure Guru Gobind Singh Ji that they would not harm him if he vacated the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib. But, as soon as Guru Gobind Singh Ji came out of the fort, the joint army fell upon the Sikhs.

Question 14.
Give a brief account of the battle of Chamkaur Sahib.
Answer:
After Guru Gobind Singh Ji left the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji took shelter in a Garhi (mud fortress) in Chamkaur Sahib along with his 40 Sikhs. Soon, thousands of Mughal soldiers laid siege to the Garhi. The battle of Chamkaur Sahib was fought on 22 December 1704 A.D. It was a bloody battle. In this battle, the two elder sons of Guru ‘Ji, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji caused havoc among the allied ranks and ultimately laid down their lives. ‘‘

Question 15.
Write a brief note on the battle of Khidrana (Sri Mukatsar Sahib).
Or
How was Khidrana named Sri Mukatsar Sahib?
Answer:
The Faujdar of Sirhind Wazir Khan had made a surprise attack on the army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Khidrana on December 29, 1705 A.D. The Sikhs exhibited bravery in this battle also. In this battle, Guru Gobind Singh Ji got a glorious victory. Impressed by the sacrifice made by the 40 Sikhs and at the request of their dying leader Mahan Singh, Guru Ji blessed them with the boon of salvation (Mukti). In, this way Khidrana got the name of Sri Muktsar Sahib.

Question 16.
How did Guru Gobind Singh Ji settle the sectarian divisions and external dangers to Sikhism?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded Khalsa Panth in 1699 A.D. to deal with the sectarian divisioifs and external dangers to Sikhism. Guru Ji declared that all his Sikhs were his Khalsa and they were directly related to him. In this way Masands ceased to be the middlemen. Minas, Dhirmalias and Ramraias were expelled from the Sikh Panth. In order to deal with the external dangers, Guru Gobind Singh Ji ordered all the Sikhs to remain equipped with weapons.

Question 17.
What do you know about the literary activities of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Or
Describe the literary activities of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Or
Evaluate the literary activities of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s contribution in the field of literature is invaluable. He himself was a poet’and a literateur of high order. Guru Ji used Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit, Persian and Arabic languages in his writings. His great works are Jaap Sahib, Bachitar Natak,’Akal Ustat, Zafarnama, Chandi Di Var etc. Guru Gobind Singh Ji had accorded patronage to 52 top-class poets in his Darbar.

Question 18.
What is Zafarnama? What is its historical importance?
Or
What do you know about the Zafarnama written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Write a short note on Zafarnama.
Answer:
Zafarnama is a letter of victory written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Aurangzeb. It was written in Persian. It was written from Dina Kangar. In this letter Guru Gobind Singh Ji boldly explained about his oppression and injustice and breaking of oaths taken on the Quran by his officials. He accused Aurangzeb of betrayal of faith.

Question 19.
What is the importance of social reforms of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in History?
Answer:

He created Khalsa Panth and brought about a social revolution. By joining it, people of low castes got an equal status with the people of high castes.
Women were also administered Amrit and made equal to men.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji told his followers to shun alcoholic drinks and other intoxicants.
He instilled a new spirit of bravery and fearlessness in his Sikhs,
He taught the lesson of self-sacrifice for the sake of cause.

Question 20.
“Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a builder par excellence.” Do you agree to this argument?
Answer:
Undoubtedly, Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great organizer. Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave proof of his organizing ability by creating Khalsa Panth. Really, it was a great wonder that infused a new spirit among people. They became great warriors and were ready to sacrifice everything for the sake of their religion. They did not heave a sigh of relief until they put an end to the Mughal and Afghan rule in Punjab and established their independent rule.

Question 21.
Mention the characteristics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s personality.
Answer:

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great warrior and general of his time.
He was a great social reformer.
He was a man of high character.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great religious leader.
He was also a superb scholar.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was the 10th Guru of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 2.
When was Guru Gobind Singh Ji born?
Answer:
December 22, 1666 A.D.

Question 3.
Where was Guru Gobind Singh Ji born?
Answer:
Patna Sahib.

Question 4.
Name the mother of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Mata Gujari Ji.

Question 5.
Name the father of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Question 6.
What was the original name of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
Gobind Das or Gobind Rai.

Question 7.
Where did Guru Gobind Singh Ji spend his childhood?
Answer:
He spent his childhood at Patna Sahib.

Question 8.
When did Guru Gobind Singh Ji get Gurgaddi?
Answer:
1675 A.D.

Question 9.
How many Sahibzadas did Guru Gobind Singh Ji have?
Answer:
Four.

Question 10.
What was the name of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s eldest Sahibzada?
Answer:
Sahibzada Ajit Singh.

Question 11.
Who was the ruler of Kahlur (Bilaspur) at the time of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
Bhim Chand.

Question 12.
What is meant by Paonta Sahib?
Answer:
Foot-rest or a place to stay.

Question 13.
Give the name of any one poet of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Sainapat.

Question 14.
Give the name of the Nagara (Drum), of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Ranjit Nagara.

Question 15.
When was Ranjit Nagara beaten?
Answer:
At the time of starting of war, Guru’s visit on a hunting tour and starting of langar.

Question 16.
Who was Bhim Chand?
Answer:
The ruler of Kahlur.

Question 17.
When was the first battle between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Hill Chiefs fought?
Or
When was the battle of Bhangani fought?
Answer:
1688 A.D.

Question 18.
As a result of whose help could Guru Gobind Singh Ji win the battle of Bhangani?
Answer:
Pir Buddhu Shah.

Question 19.
When was the battle of Nadaun fought?
Answer:
1690 A.D.

Question 20.
What was the first name of Sri Anandpur Sahib?
Or
What was the original name of Sri Anandpur Sahib?
Answer:
Chakk Nanaki or Makhawal.

Question 21.
Which Guru abolished the Masand system?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 22.
Which Guru laid the foundation of the Khalsa?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 23.
When did Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of the Khalsa?
Answer:
30 March, 1699.

Question 24.
Where did Guru Gobind Singh Ji lay the foundation of the Khalsa?
Answer:
Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Question 25.
Write the hidin reason of the creation of Khalsa.
Answer:
To defend dharma and finish tyranny.

Question 26.
Name any one of the Panj Pyaras blessed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Bhai Daya Singh Ji.

Question 27.
What is meant by Khande-ka-Pahul?
Answer:
The nectar (Amrit) prepared with double edged sword.

Question 28.
Name any one principle of the Khalsa.
Answer:
Each Khalsa will worship only one God and none else.

Question 29.
How many symbols were each Khalsa enjoined to wear by Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
Five.

Question 30.
What was the importance of the foundation of Khalsa?
Answer:
It infused a new enthusiasm among the Sikhs.

Question 31.
When was the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib fought?
Answer:
1701 A.D.

Question 32.
When was the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib fought,?
Answer:
1704 A.D.

Question 33.
Where were the two younger Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji martyred?
Answer:
Sirhind.

Question 34.
Who was the Faujdar of Sirhind during the pontificate of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer:
Wazir Khan.

Question 35.
In which battle were the two elder sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji got martyrdom?
Answer:
In the battle of Chamkaur Sahib.

Question 36.
When did the battle of Chamkaur Sahib take place?
Answer:
Dec. 22, 1704 A.D.

Question 37.
Name the two Muslim brothers who helped Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the jungle of Machhiwaraw
Answer:
Nabi Khan and Gani Khan.

Question 38.
Which was the letter written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Aurangzeb?
Answer:
Zafarnama.

Question 39.
By whom was Zafarnama written?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 40.
From which place did Guru Gobind Singh Ji write Zafarnama to Aurangzeb?
Answer:
Dina Kangar.

Question 41.
In which language was Zafarnama written?
Answer:
Persian.

Question 42.
Which was the last battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals?
Answer:
The battle of Khidrana.

Question 43.
When was the battle of Khidrana fought?
Answer:
1705 A.D.

Question 44.
To which battle were the 40 Muktas (emancipators) related?
Answer:
Battle of Khidrana.

Question 45.
Who was Bhai Mahan Singh?
Answer:
He was the leader of the Forty Muktas who became martyrs in the battle of Khidrana.

Question 46. What is the modern name of Khidrana?
Answer:
Sri Muktsar Sahib.

Question 47.
Who wrote Bachitar Natak?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 48.
Who was Bhai Nand Lai?
Answer:
Famous court poet of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 49.
Which place is known as Guru Ki Kashi?
Answer:
Talwandi Sabho.

Question 50.
Which Guru gave Adi Granth the status of Guru Granth Sahib?
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Question 51.
When and where did Guru Gobind Singh Ji immerse with Immortal?
Answer:
October 7, 1708 A.D., Nanded.

Question 52.
At which place did Guru Gobind Singh Ji immerse with Immortal?
Answer:
Nanded.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the ……………. Guru.
Answer:
Tenth

2. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was bom on ……………..
Answer:
December 22, 1666 A.D.

3. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was bom at ……………….
Answer:
Patna Sahib

4. The name of the father of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was ………………
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

5. The name of the mother of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was …………….
Answer:
Gujari

6. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji learned Gurmukhi from …………….. in his childhood.
Answer:
Bhai Sahib Chand

7. Guru Gobind Singh Ji succeeded to Gurgaddi in ………………..
Answer:
1675 A.D.

8. Guru Gobind Singh Ji had …………… sons.
Answer:
four

9. Guru Gobind Singh Ji built the Nagara (Drum) named ………………
Answer:
Ranjit

10. The first battle between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Hill Chiefs was fought at ……………….
Answer:
Bhangani

11. The battle of Bhangani was fought in ………………
Answer:
1688 A.D.

12. The battle of Nadaun was fought in ………………
Answer:
1690 A.D.

13. Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of Khalsa at …………….
Answer:
Sri Anandpur Sahib

14. Khalsa Panth was established in …………….
Answer:
1699 A.D.

15. The first pyara of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was ………………
Answer:
Bhai Daya Singh

16. The first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib was fought in ……………..
Answer:
1701 A.D.

17. The second Battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib was fought in …………………
Answer:
1704 A.D.

18. In the battle of Chamkaur Sahib, the two elder sons …………… and …………. of Guru Gobind Singh Ji got martyrdom.
Answer:
Ajit Singh,
Jujhar Singh

19. The two Muslim brothers ……………. and …………….. helped Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the jungle of Machhiwara.
Answer:
Nabi Khan,
Gani Khan

20. ……………….. was written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Dina Kangar.
Answer:
Zafarnama

21. Zafarnama was written in ……………… language.
Answer:
Persian

22. The last battle fought between the Mughals and Guru Gobind Singh was ……………..
Answer:
Khidrana

23. The battle of Khidrana was fought in ………………..
Answer:
1705 A.D.

24. The modern name of Khidrana is ………………..
Answer:
Sri Muktsar Sahib

25. ‘Chali Muktas’ are related to the battle of ………………
Answer:
Khidrana

26. The autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh Ji is ……………….
Answer:
Bachitar Natak

27. The literature ‘Krishna Avtar’ was compiled by ………………
Answer:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji

28. Nand Lai was the ……………. of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
Court poet

29. Guru Gobind Singh Ji immersed in Eternal Light in ……………….
Answer:
1708 A.D.

30. Guru Gobind Singh Ji immersed in Eternal Light at ……………….
Answer:
Nanded

True or False:

1. The 10th Guru of the Sikhs was Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
True

2. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born on December 22, 1666 A.D.
Answer:
True

3. Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s father name was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
True

4. The name of the mother of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was Gujari Ji.
Answer:
True

5. The original name of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was Gobind Das (Rai).
Answer:
True

6. Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent his childhood in Patna Sahib.
Answer:
True

7. Five sons were blessed to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
False

8. The naine of the eldest Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was Ajit Singh.
Answer:
True

9. The two famous poets of Guru Gobind Singh Ji were Sainapat and Nand Lai.
Answer:
True

10. The battle of Bhangani was fought in 1688 A.D.
Answer:
True

11. Bhim Chand helped Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the battle of Bhangani.
Answer:
False

12. The battle of Nadaun was fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals in 1690 A.D.
Answer:
True

13. In 1609 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh founded Khalsa Panth.
Answer:
False

14. Guru Gobind Singh Ji selected ‘Panj Pyaras’ at the time of creation of Khalsa.
Answer:
True

15. The first Panj Pyara was Bhai Dharam Das Ji.
Answer:
False

16. Masand system was abolished by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at the time of creation of Khalsa.
Answer:
True

17. The first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib was fought in 1701 A.D.
Answer:
True

18. The second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib was fought in 1706 A.D.
Answer:
False

19. The battle of Chamkaur Sahib was fought in 1704 A.D.
Answer:
True

20. Zafarnama, the letter was written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
Answer:
False

21. Zafarnama was written in Persian.
Answer:
True

23. The battle of Khidrana was the last battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals.
Answer:
True

24. The battle of Khidrana was fought in 1705 A.D.
Answer:
True

25. Sri Muktsar Sahib is the modern name of Khidrana.
Answer:
True

26. Bachitar Natak is the autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
True

27. Guru Gobind Singh Ji immersed in Eternal Light in 1707 A.D.
Answer:
False

28. Guru Gobind Singh Ji immersed in Eternal Light at Nanded.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the tenth Guru of the Sikhs?
(a) Guru Hargobind Ji
(b) Guru Gobind Singh ji
(c) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
(d) Guru Har Krishan Ji.
Answer:
(b) Guru Gobind Singh ji

2. When was Guru Gobind Singh Ji born?
(a) In 1646 A.D.
(b) In 1656 A.D.
(c) In 1666 A.D.
(d) In 1676 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1666 A.D.

3. Where was Guru Gobind Singh Ji born?
(a) Patna Sahib
(b) Goindwal Sahib
(c) Khadur Sahib
(d) Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
(a) Patna Sahib

4. What was the name of the father of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Guru Hargobind Ji
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji
(c) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

5. What was the name of the mother of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Gujari Ji
(b) Nanaki Ji
(c) Sulakhni Ji
(d) Khivi Ji.
Answer:
(a) Gujari Ji

6. What was the original name of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Gobind Nath
(b) Gobind Das
(c) Bhai Jetha Ji
(d) Bhai Lehria Ji.
Answer:
(b) Gobind Das

7. How many Sahibzadas Guru Gobind Singh Ji had?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) Five.
Answer:
(c) Four

8. When did Guru Gobind Singh Ji get Guruship?
(a) In 1666 A.D.
(b) In 1670 A.D.
(c) In 1672 A.D.
(d) In 1675 AD.
Answer:
(d) In 1675 AD.

9. Which was the main literary centre of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Sirhind
(b) Paonta Sahib
(c) Patna Sahib
(d) Khadur Sahib.
Answer:
(b) Paonta Sahib

16. What was the name of the Nagara (Drum) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Ranjit Nagara
(b) Nalwa Nagara
(c) Khalsa Nagara
(d) Panth Nagara.
Answer:
(a) Ranjit Nagara

11. Who was Bhim Chand?
(a) Ruler of Kangra
(b) Ruler of Srinagar
(c) Ruler of Kahlur
(d) Ruler of Guler.
Answer:
(c) Ruler of Kahlur

12. When was the battle of Bhangani fought?
(a) In 1686 A.D.
(b) In 1687 A.D.
(c) In 1688 A.D.
(d) In 1690 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1688 A.D.

13. As a result of whose help could Guru Gobind Singh .Ji win the battle of Bhangani?
(a) Pir Buddhu Shah
(b) Saint Mian Mir
(c) Pir Rehmat Shah
(d) Fateh Shah.
Answer:
(a) Pir Buddhu Shah

14. When was the battle of Nadaun fought?
(a) In 1688 A.D.
(b) In 1690 A.D.
(c) In 1694 A.D.
(d) In 1695 A.D.
Answer:
(b) In 1690 A.D.

15. By which Guru the Masand system was abolished?
(a) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(b) Guru Hargobind Ji
(c) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

16. Which Guru laid the foundation of the Khalsa?
(a) Guru Nanak Dev Ji
(b) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(c) Guru Hargobind Ji
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

17. When was Khalsa founded?
(a) In 1688 A.D.
(b) Ih 1690 A.D.
(c) In 1695 A.D.
(d) In 1699 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1699 A.D.

18. Where was Khalsa founded by Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Amritsar
(b) Sri Anandpur Sahib
(c) Kiratpur Sahib
(d) Goindwal Sahib.
Answer:
(b) Sri Anandpur Sahib

19. Who was the first Piara blessed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Bhai Daya Ram Ji
(b) Bhai Sahib Chand Ji
(c) Bhai Himmat Rai Ji
(d) Bhai Dharam Das Ji.
Answer:
(a) Bhai Daya Ram Ji

20. How many symbols were each Khalsa enjoined to wear by Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) Five.
Answer:
(d) Five.

21. When was the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib fought?
(a) In 1701 A.D.
(d) In 1702 AD.
(c) In 1704 A.D.
(d) In 1705 A.D.
Answer:
(a) In 1701 A.D.

22. When was the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib fough
(a) In 1701 A.D.
(b) In 1702 AD.
(c) In 1704 A.D.
(d) In 1705 AD.
Answer:
(c) In 1704 A.D.

23. In which battle 40 Sikhs wrote Bedawa?
(a) Battle of Bhangani
(b) First battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib
(c) Second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib
(d) Battle of Chamkaur Sahib.
Answer:
(c) Second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib

24. When was the battle of Chamkaur Sahib fought?
(a) In 1702 A.D.
(b) In 1703 A.D.
(c) In 1704 A.D.
(d) In 1706 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1704 A.D.

25. In which battle the two elder sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji got martyrdom?
(a) Battle of Khidrana
(b) Battle of Chamkaur Sahib
(c) Second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib
(d) Battle of Bhangani.
Answer:
(b) Battle of Chamkaur Sahib

26. Which letter was written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji for Aurangzeb?
(a) Zafarnama
(b) Shastranam Mala
(c) Bachitar Natak
(d) Khat-i-Aurangzeb.
Answer:
(a) Zafarnama

27. In which script Zafarnama was written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
(a) Hindi
(b) Sanskrit
(c) Punjabi
(d) Persian.
Answer:
(d) Persian.

28. When was the battle of Khidrana fought?
(a) In 1703 A.D.
(b) In 1704 A.D.
(c) In 1705 A.D.
(d) In 1706 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1705 A.D.

29. To which battle were the 40 Muktas related?
(a) Battle of Chamkaur Sahib
(b) Battle of Khidrana
(c) First battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib
(d) Second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
(b) Battle of Khidrana

30. Which town was named Sri Muktsar Sahib?
(a) Bhangani
(b) Makhowal
(c) Khidrana
(d) Nirmoh.
Answer:
(c) Khidrana

31. Who wrote Bachitar Natak?
(a) Guni’Nanak Bey Ji
(b) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(c) GuruTegh
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

32. When did Guru Gobind Singh Ji immerse in Eternal Light?
(a) In 1705 AD.
(b) In 1706 A.D.
(c) In 1707 A.D.
(d) In 1708 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1708 A.D.

33. Where did Guru Gobind Singh Ji immerse in Eternal Light?
(a) Khidrana
(b) Talwandi Sabo
(c) Nanded
(d) Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
(c) Nanded

PSEB 11th Class Political Science Solutions Chapter 27 The State Legislature

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 11th Class Political Science Book Solutions Chapter 27 The State Legislature Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 27 The State Legislature

Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Explain the composition and powers of the Vidhan Sabha.
Answer:
The Constitution provides Legislature, a law-making body, to every State. In some States the Legislature is bi-cameral, and in some it is uni-cameral. Where the Legislature is bi-cameral, the Upper House is called the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) and the Lower House is known as the legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha). Vidhan Sabha is elected directly by the people, hence it is the representative House. The Vidhan Sabha, by passing a resolution by 2/3rd majority of members present and voting, may request the Parliament to create or abolish the Vidhan Parishad in the State.

Composition:
The Constitution provides that the Legislative Assembly of each State shall consist of not more than 500 and less than 60 members. According to 36th amendment Sikkim was made a full-fledged state and members of Sikkim Legislative Assembly cannot be less than 30. The total strength of a State Legislative Assembly depends upon the population of the State.

For instance, the Haryana Legislative Assembly consists of 90 members while the Punjab Assembly has 117 members. Of all the States Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly has the maximum strength; it has 403 members. The members of the Legislative Assembly are directly elected by the people of the State on the basis of adult franchise.

Those eligible to vote must be (a) citizen of India, (b) must have completed the age of 18 years and (c) must have not been otherwise disqualified. The Constitution also makes provision for the reservation of seats for the Scheduled Castes and Tribes. It is to give special representation to them.

However, elections of the members of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes are also held on the basis of joint electorate. Provision for the nomination of members belonging to the Anglo-Indian community has also been made in the Constitution. If the Governor is of the opinion that the Anglo-Indian community is not adequately represented in the Legislative Assembly, he may nominate one member of the community to the Assembly.

Qualifications:
The qualifications and disqualifications for a member of the State Legislative Assembly are the same as for members of the Lok Sabha. A candidate seeking election to the Legislative Assembly must fulfil the following qualifications:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed the age of 25 years.
He must not hold an office of profit.
He must possess qualifications laid down by the Parliament of India; and
He must not be of unsound mind and should not have been declared disqualified by a competent court.

If after election any question arises as to whether a member is subjected to any of the disqualifications, the decision of the Governor shall be final. But before giving any decision on any such question, the Governor is required to obtain the opinion of the Election Commission and act according to such opinion. The decision of the Governor, therefore, is really the decision of the Election Commission.

Term:
The term of the Legislative Assembly is five years. The term of five years starts from the date of its sitting. After the expiry of five years the Assembly stands automatically dissolved. The Governor is empowered to dissolve the Assembly even before expiry of five years. The life of the Assembly can be extended also. During the proclamation of emergency, the life of the Assembly may be extended by a law of Parliament for a period not exceeding one year at a time.

Salary and Allowances:
Members of the Legislative Assembly are entitled to such salary and allowances as are determined by the Legislature of the State by law. It is thus clear that members of different Legislative Assemblies do not get identical salary and allowances.

Privileges of the Members:
Like the members of Parliament, the members of the State Legislature also enjoy freedom of speech on the floor of the House. They cannot be prosecuted for having said anything on the floor of the House. During session the members cannot be arrested in any civil case. All these privileges are granted to them with a view that members may be in a position to discharge their duties as members of the House.

The Quorum:
Until the Legislature of the State by law otherwise provides, the quorum to constitute a meeting of the House shall be the ten members or one-tenth of the total number of members of the House, whichever is greater. According to 42nd Amendment each House of the State legislature is empowered to determine its quorum. If at any time during a meeting of the House there is no quorum, it shall be the duty of the presiding officer to adjourn or suspend the meeting until there is a quorum.

Officers of the Legislative Assembly:
The presiding officer of the Legislative Assembly is called the Speaker. There is also a Deputy Speaker who presides over the House when the Speaker is absent. The Speaker and the Deputy Speaker are both elected by the members of the House.

Power and Functions of the Legislative Assembly:
The Legislative Assembly has the powers to make laws on all subjects contained in the State List. These subjects are within the exclusive jurisdiction of the State Legislative Assembly. In States where there exists the other House i.e., Legislative Council also, the Legislative Assembly works together with the Legislative Council. Then the State Legislature means both the Heuses. However, the Legislative Council has been kept a weak Chamber as compared to the Legislative Assembly. It cannot be an obstacle in the way of the Legislative Assembly. The powers and functions of the Legislative Assembly may be discussed as ahead:

1. Legislative Powers:
The Legislative Assembly can make laws on the subjects mentioned in the State list and Concurrent list. If there is only one chamber of the legislature, the bill after having been passed by this chamber is sent to the Governor for his assent. If there are two chambers of the legislature, the bill after having been passed by one chamber is sent to the second chamber and then to the Governor of the State for his assent.

The second chamber council can delay the passage of the bill at the most for 4 months. The Governor can veto a bill once but if passed by the legislature for the second time, the Governor will have to give his asset. If a bill is passed by the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council rejects it or delays it for more than 3 months, the bill will go back to the Assembly. If the Legislative Council again rejects it or delays it for more than one month, it will be considered to have been passed by the State Legislature as it was passed by the Legislative Assembly. In this way the Legislative Council can delay a non-money bill at the most for 4 months.

2. Financial Powers:
Money bill can be introduced only in the Legistative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly exercises complete control over the finances of the State. The Legislative Council can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days. The Legislative Council may reject a money bill or may not take any action over it for 14 days: in both these conditions, the money bill is considered as passed and is sent to the Governor for his approval. The Governor cannot refuse to give his assent to the money bill. During emergency limitations can be imposed on the financial powers of the Governor.

3. Executive Powers:
The State executive is responsible to the Legislative Assembly for all its actions and policies. The leader of the majority party in the Legislative Assembly is appointed the Chief Minister of the State. Most of the ministers are taken from the Legislative Assembly. The members of the Legislative Assembly can ask questions from the ministers and they are to give satisfactory answers to all these questions. The Legislative Assembly can reject an important bill of the Cabinet or by decreasing the salary of a minister or by passing a vote of no-confidence against the ministry to remove it from office.
PSEB 11th Class Political Science Solutions Chapter 27 The State Legislature 1

4. Electoral Functions:
The members of the Legislative Assembly participate in the election of the President of India. It elects l/3rd members of the Legislative Council of the State. The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the State Legislatures. It elects its own Chairman and Deputy Chairman.

5. Constitutional Functions:
Constitutional powers of the Legislative Assembly are not very important. Power of amendment is vested with the Parliament, but important provisions of the Constitution cannot be amended unless half the State Legislatures in the country approve such an amendment.

6. Creation or the Abolition of the Legislative Council:
The Legislative Assembly, by passing a resolution by two-thirds majority of the members present and voting, can request the Union Parliament for the creation or the abolition of the Legislative Council in the State. It is merely a request to the Union Parliament and the Union Parliament is not bound to accept the request. On 7th April 1993, the’ Punjab Vidhan Sabha passed a resolution for the creation of a Legislative Council for the state.

Position of the Legislative Assembly:
The Legislative Assembly plays a very important role in the administration of the State. It has almost all the legislative powers of the State. The Legislative Council can delay an ordinary bill at the most for 4 months and a money bill at the most for 14 days. No law-can be passed against the will of the Legislative Assembly. The Cabinet is completely under the control bf the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly by passing a vote of no-confidence against the ministry can remove it from office. In brief the Legislative Assembly enjoys an important positioirin the State.

Question 2.
Write a short note on the Speaker of Legislative Assembly of a State.
Or
Explain with appropriate illustrations, live main functions of the Speaker of a Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly).
Answer:
The presiding officer of the Legislative Assembly is called the Speaker. The Speaker is elected by the members of the House. The Speaker must be a member of the House. A member who holds the office of the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker vacates his office, if he ceases to be a member of the House. He can also resign his office^tt any time when he wants. If the Speaker resigns, the letter of resignation is addressed to the Deputy Speaker.

The Speaker does not vacate his office on the dissolution of the House. He continues in office until immediately before the first meeting of the House after the dissolution.

The Speaker and the Deputy Speaker can be removed from office on a resolution passed by a majorty of all the then members of the House. But no such resolution can be moved unless 14 days’ notice for moving such a resolution is given. Moreover, reasons for removal should be explicit. The presiding officer may not allow motion to be moved if the charges levelled against the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker are vague. It happened in the Legislative Assembly of Haryana.

The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker is not to preside at any sitting of the Assembly while any resolution for his removal is under consideration. But he has the right to sit in the House, defend himself and is entitled to vote in the first instance on such a resolution. At that moment, he has no right of casting vote.

The Speaker and the Deputy Speaker are paid salaries and allowances as fixed by the State Legislature by law. Those are charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State.

Functions of the Speaker:
The functions and powers of the Speaker of Legislative Assembly are almost the same as those of the Speaker of Lok Sabha. His functions and powers are as ahead:

He is required to preserve order and decorum in the House for conducting legislative business.
He allocates time for different kinds of businesses in the House.
He interprets the rules of procedure.
He puts matters to vote and announces result.
He has the right of a casting vote in case of a tie.
He admits motions, resolutions and points of order!
He is empowered to adjourn the meeting of the House in the absence of a quorum.
He can order expunction of indecent and incriminatory references.
He allows the members to speak in the House.
He may name a member and ask him to leave the House in case of disorderly behaviour.
He can adjourn the House in case of grave disorder or serious matter.
He is to certify a bill after it is passed by the House.
He decides whether a bill is money bill or not.
He presides over the joint session of the two Houses,
He keeps control over the legislative secretariat.
He accepts or rejects the resignation of a member of the House after ascertaining whether it was submitted under pressure or not.

Question 3.
Discuss the composition, powers and functions of the State Legislative Council.
Answer:
Composition of the Legislative Council.. The Legislative Council is the upper or the second chamber of State Legislature. The Legislative Council does not exist in all the States of India. At present Legislative Councils exist in U.P., Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telagana. The Legislative Council can be established in the State by Parliament on the request of the Legislative Assembly of the State. The number of the members of the Legislative Council cannot be more than 1/3 of the membership of the Legislative Assembly and it cannot be less than 40.

Election:
The members of the Legislative Council are not elected directly by the voters. They are elected in the following ways:
1. One-sixth of the total members of Council are nominated by the Governor. These persons have special aptitude and specialization in literature, fine arts science and social service.

2. One-third of the members of the Council are elected by the State Legislative Assembly. These persons are not to be the members of the House.

3. One-third of the members are elected by the local bodies namely Corporations, Municipalities, Zila Parishads and Panchayats etc.

4. One-twelfth of the members of the Council are elected by the teachers of not lower than. Higher Secondary School Teachers who have three years of standing are entitled to vote at the elections.

5. One-twelfth of the members are elected by the University graduates of at least 3 years’ of standing.

Term of Office:
Legislative Council is a permanent body. Its one-third members retire by rotation after every 2 years and these persons can be re-elected. Each member of the Council remains in office for 6 years.

Qualifications:
Following are the qualifications for .becoming the member of the Legislative Council:

He should be a citizen of India.
He should not be less than 30 years of age.
He should not hold any office of profit under the Central or State government.
He should not be mad or insane and should not have been disqualified to become the member of the Council.

Chairman:
There is an elected Chairman of the Council who is the presiding officer. He is responsible for running smoothly the business of the House. The Legislative Council can remove the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman from office by a majority vote of the House.

Powers and functions of the Legislative Council:
The Legislative Council exercises the following powers-
1. Legislative Powers:
Any non-money bill which can be introduced in the Legislative Assembly can also be introduced in the Legislative Council. Any ordinary bill in the subjects mentioned in the State list and concurrent list can be introduced in the Legislative Council. After the bill is passed by the Legislative Council it is sent to the Legislative Assembly. The bill cannot be sent to the Governnor for his assent unless it is passed by the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Council can delay a non-money bill at the most for 4 months.

2. Financial Powers:
In financial matters the Legislative Council does not enjoy much power. Money bills cannot be introduced in this chamber. The money bill can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly and after it is passed from there it is sent to the Legislative Council and the Council can delay it at the most for 14 days. It may reject the bill or may’not take any action over it for 14 days and in both these cases the bill is considered passed by both the Houses and is sent to the Governnor for his assent. Budget is introduced only in the Legislative Assembly.

3. Control over the Executive:
The Legislative Council does not exercise much control over the executive. Some ministers are of course taken from the Council. Its members can ask questions to the ministers and they are to give satisfactory answers to the questions. The Legislative Council can criticise the functioning of the departments under the ministers. More than this it does not have any control over the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers cannot be removed from office by the Legislative Council.

Position of the Legislative Council:
Legislative Council is the upper chamber of the State Legislature. But its position as compared with the lower chamber is of less importance. The Legislative Assembly can establish or abolish the Legislative Council by passing a resolution to this effect. The very existence of the Legislative Council depends upon the Legislative Assembly.

It also enjoys less powers as compared with the Legislative Assembly. It can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days and a non-money bill at the most for 4 months. It cannot stand in the way of the Legislative Assembly. Notwithstanding all these weaknesses it has its own importance. It serves as a revising chamber. It brings to light the shortcomings in the bills passed by the Legislative Assembly.

Question 4.
Discuss the composition, powers, functions and position of the State Legislature.
Or
Write a short note on State Legislature.
Answer:
Composition:
The State Legislature is empowered to make laws in the State. In most of the States there is a bi-cameral Legislature and in come States there is only one chamber.
1. Legislative Assembly:
There is a Legislative Assembly in each State. It can have minimum 60 members and maximum 500 members. The number of the seats is fixed in proportion to the population of the State. The members are elected by the people directly. The Governor can nominate one Anglo-Indians to the Legislative Assembly if he feels that the community has not got adequate representation. It is elected for a period of five years. The Governor can dissolve the assembly even before the expiry of 5 years and can order fresh elections. It has one Chairman and one Vice-Chairman.

2. Legislative Council:
In Haryana, Kerala, Rajasthan, Punjab, Orissa, Nagaland, Gujarat, Himachal, Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur, there is no Legislative Council. The Parliament can establish and abolish the Legislative Council on the request of the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Council cannot have more than 1/3 of the members of the Legislative Assembly and cannot have less than 40 members. One-third of its members are elected by the Legislative Assembly, 1/3 by the local bodies, 1/12 by the teachers, 1/12 by the graduates of the three-year standing and 1/6 are nominated by the Governor of the State. One-third of its members retire after every two years. Each member remains in office for 6 years. It has one Chairman and one Deputy Chairman.

Powers and Functions of the Legislature:
The Legislature in the State enjoys the following powers and functions:
1. Legislative Powers:
The State Legislature can frame laws on all the subjects mentioned in the State list and concurrent list. After the bill is passed by both the Houses it is sent to the Governor. The Governor can exercise his veto power. He can once refuse to give his assent to the bill. But if the Legislature passes the bill for the second time the Governor then is bound to give his assent to it. The Governor can reserve some bills for the consideration of the President. The President can also make use of his veto power but for the second time he must give his assent to the bill.

The Parliament can also make laws on the subjects mentioned in the Concurrent list. If there is a clash between the Centre and the State over a law made on a subject from the Concurrent list, the will of the Centre is to prevail. The ordinances issued by the Governor are to be approved by the legislature otherwise they will cease to operate.

2. Financial Powers:
The Legislature controls the finances of the State. The budget of the State is presented to the Legislature before the start of the financial year. The Government can impose taxes only after the budget is passed by the Legislature. It can spend money when it is empowered to spend by the Legislature. No tax can be imposed on the people without the consent of the Legislature.

3. Executive Powers:
There is a close relationship between the Legisture and the Executive. The Chief Minister and other Ministers are taken from among the members of the Legislature. They attend the meetings of the Legislature and answer the questions put to them by the members of the Legislature. They can criticise the working of the Government. The Ministers can remain in office so far as they enjoy the confidence of the Council of Ministers. If the Legislative Assembly passes a vote of no-confidence against the ministry, the ministry is to resign.

4. Electoral Functions:
The Legislature also enjoys some electoral powers. The members of the Legislative Assembly participate in the election of the President. The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the members of the State Legislative Assemblies.

5. Amendment in the Constitution:
The State Legislature participates in the amendment of the Constitution. The State Legislature cannot itself introduce the bill for amending the Constitution. The bill for amending the Constitution is introduced in the Parliament and after it is passed by the Parliament, the approval of half the Legislatures is essential for its rectification.

Position of the Legislature:
The Legislature has an important role to play in the administration of the State. It can ipake laws on all the subjects mentioned in the State list. It can also frame laws on all the subjects mentioned in the concurrent list. It has full control over the finances of the State. It controls the Council of Ministers. It also participates in amending the important provisions of the Constitution, But it does not mean that the State executive enjoys unlimited authority. It is to perform its functions under certain limitations.

Question 5.
Describe the Procedure of law-making in State Legislature.
Answer:
1. Introduction of the Bill:
An ordinary bill can be introduced in either house of the Legislature. It can also be introduced by a private member of the Legislature. The money bills can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly by the ministers. A private member is to give a month’s notice for the introduction of the bill and for this purpose a day is fixed in the programme of House. On the fixed date the mover of the bill asks for the permission of the House to move the bill which is only a formality.

After getting the permission of the House he reads the title of the bill. It is called the introduction of the bill and the bill is published in the Government Gazette. The ministers are not bound to give a notice for the introduction of the bill and they can get the bill published in the gazette in no time.

2. First Reading:
Sometimes there is a first reading of the bill just after the . introduction stage. Sometimes another date is fixed for the first reading of the bill. On the fixed date the mover of the bill stands up at his seat and requests that the bill be read for the first time. On getting the permission of the House he explains the main principles and objects of the bill. After this other members of the House express their opinions in favor or against the bill.

The bill at this stage is not debated and discussed in detail, only the objects and main principles involved are discussed. Then the mover of the bill puts a resolution that the bill be sent to a Select committee. If this request of the mover of the bill is not opposed to, the bill is sent to the Select Committee: if it is opposed to it, it is sent to press for eliciting public opinion. It can also be put to vote and if the majority of the members is against the bill, it is rejected.

3. Select Committee:
The bill is sent to the Select Committee if it is rejected at the first reading. The Committee consists of nearly 20 members which are taken from among the members of the House. The bill which is published for eliciting public opinion is also sent to the Select Committee. The Select Committee discusses the bill in detail and debates the merits and demerits of the bill. The Committee can suggest amendments in the provisions and clauses of the bill. After discussing the bill thoroughly the Committee prepares its report in favour or against the bill or suggests some amendments in the bill. While preparing the report the Committee takes into consideration public opinion also. Then the committee sends its report to the House.

4. Second Reading:
The report of the Select Committee is discussed on a fixed date. The mover of the bill on the fixed date requests the House that the report of the Select Committee may be discussed. The bill is discussed in detail in the house. The views of the Select Committee on all clauses are discussed. Amendments in the bill can be suggested by the Select Committee. After the bill is thoroughly discussed, the opinion of the House is sought on each clause ; amendments or proposals are also put to vote. The bill is passed according to the view-point of the majority of the members.

5. Third Reading:
A day is fixed for the third reading of the bill. Only verbal suggestions can be made in the third reading. The proposals for change in the working of the bill can be given. The entire bill is put to vote at this stage and it is either rejected or passed. The bill passed in the third reading means that the bill has been passed by one House.

Bill in the Second House:
Where there is no upper chamber in a State, the bill is passed by the Legislative Assembly and is sent to the Governor for his assent. Money bill can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly and after it is passed by the assembly it is sent to the Legislative Council. The Legislative Council may reject a money bill or make such certain amendments which may not be acceptable to the House or may delay its passage for 14 days without taking any action against it. In all these situations the bill is considered passed by the Legislative Council.

If non-money bill is introduced and passed in the Legislative Council, it is sent to the Legislative Assembly. It cannot become a law unless it is passed by the Legislative Assembly. But a bill which is passed by the Legislative Assembly cannot be completely rejected by the Legislative Council. The Legislative Council may reject the bill, or may suggest some amendments which may not be acceptable to the Legislative Assembly or it may not take any action over it for 3 months.

In all these cases the Legislative Assembly can pass the bill for the second time. After the bill is passed for the second time by the Legislative Assembly it is sent to the Council. Legislative Council may reject the bill, may suggest certain amendments which may not be acceptable to the Legislative Assembly, or may not take any action over it if or one month. In all these cases it is considered passed by the Legislative Council and is sent to the Governor for his assent. The bill is to pass through all the stages in the second chamber through which it has passed in the first chamber.

Assent of Governor:
After the bill ig passed by both the Houses it is sent to Governor for his assent. He cannot refuse to give his assent to the money bill. In case of an ordinary bill he may give his assent, or he may reserve it for the consideration of the President or he may reject it. If the Governor feels that the public opinion is against the bill, he can use his veto power. If the legislature passes the bill for second time, the Governor is bound to give his assent to it.

The Governor can send an ordinary bill for the consideration of the Present. After the bill is approved by the Governor or the President, it becomes an Act and is published in the Government Gazette. Now the law can be enforced.

Short Answer type Questions

Question 1.
Describe the composition of State Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Constitution provides that the Legislative Assembly of each State shall consist of not more than 500 and less than 60 members. According to 36th amendment. Sikkim was made full-fedged state and members of Sikkim Legislative Assembly can’t be less than 30.

The total strength of a State Legislative Assembly depends upon the population of the state. For instance the Legislative Assembly of Punjab consists of 117 members while Haryana Assembly has 90 members. Of all the States Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly has the maximum strength ; it has 403 members. The members of Legislative Assembly are directly elected by the people of the state on the basis of adult franchise. The State Legislative Assembly can be dissolved before its expiry term.

Question 2.
What are the qualifications of the members of Legislative Assembly?
Answer:
A candidate seeking elections to the Legislative Asssembly must fulfil the following qualifications:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed the age of 25 years.
He must not hold an office of profit.
He must possess qualifications laid down by the Parliament of India; and
He must not be of unsound mind and should not have been declared disqualified by a competent court.

Question 3.
Describe the tenure of the Legislative Assembly. .
Answer:
The term of the Legislative Assembly is five years. The term of five years start form the date of its sitting. After the expiry of five years the Assembly stands automatically dissolved. The Governor is empowered to dissolve the Assembly even before expiry of five years. The life of the Assembly can be extended also. During the proclamation of emergency, the life of the Assembly may be extended by a law of Parliament for a period not exceeding one year at a time.

Question 4.
Mention four powers of the State Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Legislature in the state enjoy the following powers and functions:
1. Legislative Powers. The State Legislature can frame laws on all the subjects mentioned in the state fist and concurrent list. The ordinances issued by the governor are to be approved by the legislature otherwise they will cease to operate.

2. Financial Powers. The Legislature controls the finance of the state. The budget is passed by the State Legislature before the start of the financial year. No Tax can be imposed on the people without the consent of the Legislature.

3. Executive Powers. The council of ministers is collectively and every minister is individually responsible to the state legislature. The ministers can remain in office so far as they enjoy the confidence of the State Legislatures.

4. The Legislative Assembly, by passing a resolution, can request the union parliament for the creation or the abolition of the legislative council in the state.

Question 5.
Write down the functions of the Speaker of State Legislature.
Answer:
The functions and powers of the State Speaker are almost the same as those of the Speaker of Lok Sabha. His functions and powers are as follows:

He is required to preserve order and decorum in the House of conducting Legislative business.
He allocates time for different kinds of businesses in the House.
He interprets the rules of procedure.
He puts matters to vote and announces result.

Question 6.
Describe the composition of the Legislative Council.
Answer:
The number of the members of the Legislative Council cannot be more than one- third of the total number of the membership of the Legislative Assembly and it cannot be less than 40. The members of the Legislative Council are not elected directly by the voters. They are elected in the following ways:

One-sixth of the total members of Council are nominated by the Governor.
One-third of the members of the Council are elected by the State Legislative Assembly. These persons are not to be the members of the House.
One-third of the members are elected by the local bodies namely Corporations, Municipalities, Zila Parishads and Panchayats, etc.
One-twelfth of the members of the Council are elected by the teachers of not lower than Higher Secondary School.
One-twelfth of the members are elected by the University graduate of at least 3 years’ of standing.

Question 7.
Write the duration and officers of Legislative Council.
Answer:
Term of Office:
Legislature Council is a permanent body. Its one-third members retire by rotation after 2 years but these persons can be re-elected. Each member of the Council remains in office for 6 years.

Question 8.
Discuss the utility of the Legislative Council.
Answer:
Legislative council is a useful chamber. The utility of this house can be described as:

1. Revision of Bill: The Legislative council serves as a revising chamber. It prevents the ill backed and ill-considered bills.

2. Relieves the Lower House of a Part its Work: The Legislative council reduces the work of the Legislative Assembly. Non-controversial bill can be introduced in the Legislative council.

3. Highlights the Drawbacks of the Bill. Legislative council can delay a non-money bill which has been passed by the Legislative Assembly for a period of four months. It is sufficient time to highlight the drawbacks of the bill and to know the public opinion.

4. Useful House. Legislative Council is a useful house. The standard of debate in Legislative council is very high. The bills in the Legislative council are debated in a very peaceful environment.

Question 9.
Give any four argument against Legislative Council.
Answer:

Not Popular House: The Legislative council is not a people’s House. Its members are not directly elected by the people. It is a citadel of vested interests.
Weak Chamber: The Legislative council is very weak House. It can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days and a non-money bill for four months.
Superflous and Mischievous: The Legislative council is agree with the first chamber (Vidhan Sabha) it is superfluous and if it disagree it is mischievous. The Legislative council is not Second Chamber but a Secondary Chamber.
Expensive: The members of Legislative council enjoy co-equal privileges and perks with the members of Legislative Assembly. Hence it an unnecessary burdon on the public exchequer.

Question 10.
How does the Legislature in Punjab State Control the Council of Ministers?
Answer:
In Punjab Legislature controls the Council of Ministers in the following manners:

The members of the state Legislature controls the council of Ministers by asking questions and supplementary questions.
The members of the state Legislature can move the motion of censure or adjournment motion against the Council of Ministers.
The Council of Ministers is collectively and ministers are individually responsible to the state Legislature.
The Legislative Assembly can move the vote of no-confidence against the council of ministers. The council of ministers has to resign if the Assembly passes that motion.

Question 11.
‘Legislative Assembly is more powerful than Legislative Council’. Explain.
Answer:
1. Of the two Houses, it is the Legislative Assembly which has been given the prestigious place in the state legislature. Ordinary bill can be introduced in either House. The legislative Council cannot make any law against the wishes of the Assembly while the Assembly can override the council after an interval of four months. On ordinary bills the decision of the Assembly is practically final.

2. In respect of money-bill, the Legislative Assembly Commands a dominating position. A money-bill can originate in the Legislative Assembly only. When a money bill is passed by the legislative Assembly, it is sent to the Council. The legislative Council is required to return the money-bill to the Assembly within 14 days, of its receipts with or without its recommendations. It is the Legislative Assembly which has complete control over the finances of the State.

Members of both the Houses have the right to put questions and supplementaries to the ministers. But the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Legislative Assembly only.

Question 12.
Describe the position of the Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Legislative Assembly plays a very important role in the administration of the State. It has almost all the legislative powers of the State. The Legislative Council can delay an ordinary bill at the most for 4 months and a money bill at the most for 14 days. No law can be passed against the bill of the Legislative Assembly. The Cabinet is completely under the control of the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly by passing a vote of no-confidence against the ministry can remove it from office. In brief, the Legislative Assembly enjoys an important position in the State.

Question 13.
Describe the position of the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad).
Answer:
Legislative Council is the upper chamber of the State Legislature. But its position as compared with the lower chamber is of less importance. The Legislative Assembly can establish or abolish the Legislative Council by passing a resolution of this effect. The very existence of the Legislative Council depends upon the Legislative Assembly. It also enjoys less powers as compared with the Legislative Assembly.

It can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days and a non-money bill at the most for 4 months. It cannot stand in the way of the Legislative Assembly. Notwithstanding all these weaknesses it has its own importance. It serves as a revising chamber. It brings to light the shortcomings in the bills passed by the Legislative Assembly.

Question 14.
Describe the Legislative powers of the Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Legislative Assembly can make laws of the subjects mentioned in the State list and concurrent list. If there is only one chamber of the legislature, the bill after having been passed by this chamber is sent to the Governor for his assent. If there are two chambers of the legislature, the bill after having been passed by one chamber is sent to the second chamber and then to the Governor of the State for his assent. The second chamber council can delay the passage of the bill at the most for 4 months. The Governor can veto a bill once but if passed by the legislature for the second time, the Governor will have to give his assent.

If a bill is passed by the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council rejects it or delays it for more than 3 months, the bill will go back to the Assembly. If the Legislative Council again rejects it or delays it for more than one month, it will be considered to have been passed by the State Legislature as it was passed by the Legislative Assembly. In this way the Legislative Council can delay a non-money bill at the most for 4 months.

Question 15.
Explain the financial powers of the State Legislature.
Answer:
Money bill can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly exercises complete control over the finances of the State. The Legislative Council can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days. The Legislative Council may reject a money bill or may not take any action over it for 14 days, in both these conditions, the money bill is considered as passed and is sent to the Governor for his approval. The Governor cannot refuse to give his assent to the money bill. During emergency limitations can be imposed on the financial powers of the Governor.

Question 16.
Explain the Executive powers of the State Legislature.
Answer:
The State Executive is responsible to the Legislative Assembly for all its actions and policies. The leader of the majority party in the Legislative Assembly is appointed the Chief Minister of the State. Most of the ministers are taken from the Legislative Assembly.

The members of the Legislative Assembly can ask questions from the ministers and they are to give statisfactory answers to all these questions. The Legislative Assembly can reject an important bill of the Cabinet or by decreasing the salary of a minister or by passing a vote of no-confidence against the ministry to remove it from the office.

Question 17.
Discuss in brief the legislative powers of the Legislative Council.
Answer:
Any non-money bill which can be introduced in the Legislative Assembly can also be introduced in the Legislative Council. Any ordinary bill in the subjects mentioned in the State fist and concurrent list can be introduced in the Legislative Council. After the bill is passed by the Legislative Council it is sent to the Legislative Assembly. The bill cannot be sent to the Governor for his assent unless it is passed by the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Council can delay a non- money bill at the most for 4 months.

Question 18.
Describe the Financial powers of Legislative Council.
Answer:
In financial matters the Legislative Council does not enjoy much powers. Money bill cannot be introduced in this chamber. The money bill can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly and sifter it is passed from there it is sent to the Legislative Council and the Council can delay it at the most for 14 days.

It may reject the bill or may not take any action over it for 14 days and in both these cases the bill is considered passed by both the Houses and is sent to the Governor for his assent. Budget is only introduced in the Legislative Assembly.

Question 19.
Describe the position of the Legislative council regarding the control of executive.
Answer:
The Legislative Council does not exercise much control over the executive. Some ministers are of course taken from the Council. Its members can ask questions to the ministers and they are to give satisfactory answers to the questions. The Legislative Council can criticise the functioning of the departments under the ministers. More than this it does not have any control over the Council of Minister. The Council of Ministers cannot be removed from office by the Legislative Council.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Describe the composition of State Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Constitution provides that the Legislative Assembly of each State shall consist of not more than 500 and less than 60 members. The total strength of a State Legislative Assembly depends upon the population of the state. For instance the Legislative Assembly of Punjab consists of 117 members while Haryana Assembly has 90 members.

Question 2.
What are the qualifications of the members of Legislative Assembly?
Answer:
A candidate seeking elections to the Legislative Asssembly must fulfil the following qualifications:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed the age of 25 years.

Question 3.
Describe the tenure of the Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The term of the Legislative Assembly is five years. The term of five years start form the date of its sitting. After the expiry of five years the Assembly stands automatically dissolved. The Governor is empowered to dissolve the Assembly even before expiry of five years.

Question 4.
Write down any two powers of the State Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Legislature in the state enjoy the following powers and functions:
1. Legislative Powers:
The State Legislature can frame laws on all the subjects mentioned in the state list and concurrent list. The ordinances issued by the governor are to be approved by the legislature otherwise they will cease to operate.

2. Financial Powers:
The Legislature controls the finance of the state. The budget is passed by the State Legislature before the start of the financial year. No Tax can be imposed on the people without the consent of the Legislature.

He is required to preserve order and decorum in the House of conducting Leglislative business.
He allocates time for different kinds of businesses in the House.

Question 6.
Explain the utility of the Legislative Council.
Answer:
Legislative council is a useful chamber. The utility of this house can be described as:
1. Revision of Bill: The Legislative council serves as a revising chamber. It prevents the ill backed and ill-considered bills.

2. Relieves the Lower House of a Part its Work: The Legislative council reduces the work of the Legislative Assembly. Non-controversial bill can be introduced in the Legislative council.

Question 7.
Write down any two argument against Legislative Council.
Answer:

Not Popular House: The Legislative council is not a people’s House. Its members are not directly elected by the people. It is a citadel of vested interests.
Weak Chamber: The Legislative council is very weak House. It can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days and a non-money bill for four months.

Question 8.
Describe the Legislative powers of the Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
The Legislative Assembly can make laws of the subjects mentioned in the State list and concurrent list. If there is only one chamber of the legislature, the bill after having been passed by this chamber is sent to the Governor for his assent. If there are two chambers of the legislature, the bill after having been passed by one chamber is sent to the second chamber and then to the Governor of the State for his assent.

Question 9.
Explain the financial powers of the State Legislature.
Answer:
Money bill can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly exercises complete control over the finances of the State. The Legislative Council can delay a money bill at the most for 14 days. The Legislative Council may reject a money bill or may not take any action over it for 14 days, in both these conditions, the money bill is considered as passed and is sent to the Governor for his approval.

Question 10.
Discuss about the various stages through which an ordinary bill has to pass in a state Legislative Assembly before it becomes an Act.
Answer:
Any ordinary Bill has to pass through following states:

First Reading
Second Reading
Committee Stage
Reporting Stage
Third Reading
Bill in the Second Chamber.

One Word to One Sentence Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Describe the term of Legislative Council.
Answer:
Legislative Council is a permanent body.

Question 2.
Write the term of Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
5 years.

Question 3.
Write down one qualification for the membership of the Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
Candidate must have completed 25 years of age.

Question 4.
Mention the name of any one state where Legislative Council exists?
Answer:
Uttar Pradesh.

Question 5.
Write down any one qualification for the member of the Legislative Council.
Answer:
Candidate must have completed 30 years of age.

Fill in the blanks

1. …………… of the State Legislature is more powerful.
Answer:
Legislative Assembly

2. Legislative Assembly can be dissolved by the ……………… before the expiry of the tenure.
Answer:
Governor

3. Members of Legislative Assembly are elected by the ………….. .
Answer:
People

4. …………….. of the State Legislature is having real control over the executive.
Answer:
Legislative Assembly.

True or False statement

1. Speaker is the presiding officer of the Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
True

2. The Legislative Assembly of Punjab consist of 117 members.
Answer:
True

3. The tenure of the member of the Legislative Council is 5 years.
Answer:
False

4. After the passage of the bill by the State Legislative the bill is sent to the Governor.
Answer:
True

Choose The Correct Answer

Question 1.
The maximum strength of the legislative assembly in a state can be:
(A) 430
(B) 500
(C) 543
(D) 520.
Answer:
(B) 500

Question 2.
Which one of the following State Legislature is Bi-Cameral?
(A) Punjab
(B) Haryana
(C) Himachal
(D) Uttar Pradesh.
Answer:
(D) Uttar Pradesh.

Question 3.
The tenure of the Legislative Assembly is:
(A) 5 years
(B) 4 years
(C) 6 years
(D) 7 years.
Answer:
(A) 5 years

Question 4.
The Lower House of the State Legislature is:
(A) Legislative Council
(B) Legislative Assembly
(C) Lok Sabha
(D) Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
(B) Legislative Assembly

Question 5.
The Upper House of the State Legislature is:
(A) Legislative Council
(B) Legislative Assembly
(C) Lok Sabha
(D) Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
(A) Legislative Council

Question 6.
Which of the following state having Unicameral Legislature?
(A) Haryana
(B) Bihar
(C) U.P.
(D) Maharashtra.
Answer:
(A) Haryana

PSEB 11th Class Political Science Solutions Chapter 26 State Executive-Governor, Council of Ministers and Chief Minister

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 11th Class Political Science Book Solutions Chapter 26 State Executive-Governor, Council of Ministers and Chief Minister Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 26 State Executive-Governor, Council of Ministers and Chief Minister

Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Describe the appointment, powers and position of the Governor of your state.
Or
Describe the powers and position of the Governor.
Or
How is the Governor of a State appointed? Discuss his powers and position.
Answer:
While the executive power of the Union is vested in the President, that of a state is vested in a Governor. But in practice executive powers are exercised by the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister.

Appointment of the Governor:
A Governor is appointed by the President. Provison for an elected Governor had been made in the draft of the Constitution but this idea was dropped because an elected Governor would claim some powers as the representative of the people and that would have created a deadlock.

Therefore, provision for a nominated Governor is made by the President, yet actually he is nominee of the Central Cabinet. In fact this is a political post and the Prime Minister and the other members of the Cabinet would like to have men of their confidence on such key posts. Normally retired or defeated politicians are appointed to these posts. On Feb. 1, 1990 the President appointed 14 new governors. On 18th August, 2016. The President Sh. Pranab Mukherjee appointed Sh. V.P. Singh Badnore as the Governor of Punjab.

Salary and Allowances:
The pay of the Governor is Rs. 3,50,000 per month. In addition to that he gets allowances. He is given a rent-free residence, usually named Raj Bhawan. The salary and allowances of the Governor are charged on the consolidated fund of the state and are not subject to the Vote of the state legislature. The parliament may by law change the allowances or pay but the same cannot be decreased during his tenure. If any other individual acts as a Governor of more than one state, the emoluments payable to him will be fixed by the President.

Qualifications:
The following qualifications have been given in the Constitution for a Governor:

He should be a citizen of India.
He should not be less than 35 years of age.
He must not hold any office of profit.
He cannot remain a member of Parliament or a State Legislature if such a member is appointed a Governor. His seat in the legislature concerned will fall vacant as and when he takes over the charge as a Governor.
He must possess the qualifications prescribed for membership of the State Legislature.

Term of Office:
The Governor is appointed for a period of five years. The President has the right to extend the term also. However, the Governor holds the office during the pleasure of the President at any time. At the time of removal no reasons have to be given by the President. In October 1980 Mr. Prabhudas Patwari, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, was dismissed. In January, 1990 the President sought the resignation of all the governors. The Governor may himself resign before the expiry of his term. On 16th March, 1998 controversial Uttar Pradesh Governor Romesh Bhandari resigned within hours of appointment of Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee as the Prime Minister.

Immunities:
According to Art. 361, the Governor is not answerable to any Court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his office or for any act done by him in the exercise of his official duties. No criminal proceedings can be instituted or continued against the Governor of a State in any Court, during his term of office.

Nor any process for the arrest or imprisonment of the Governor shall be issued from any Court during his term of office. Civil proceedings against the Governor can be instituted in any Court in respect of any act done in his personal capacity during his term of office. But a two-month notice in writing has to be delivered to him stating the nature of the proceedings, the cause of the action, the name of the party intending to sue him, and the relief demanded.

Powers of the Governor:
The administration of the State is under the control of a Governor. He is the head of the State and he exercises various powers. These are given as follows:
1. Executive Powers:
The Governor is the head of the State. All the executive powers of the State are vested in him. He exercises the powers connected with the subjects mentioned in the State list or the concurrent list either directly or through officers subordinate to him. All the laws are executed in his name and he is responsible for the maintenance of peace and order in the State. All the important officials for the State are appointed by the Governor and all the employees of the State work under him.

He appoints the Chief Minister and all other ministers are appointed by him on the advice of the Chief Minister. Besides this the Governor appoints the State Advocate General, Chairman and members of the Public Service Commission and the Vice Chancellors of the Universities. The ministers hold office during the pleasure of the Governor. He has the power to dismiss the Council of Ministers.

Article 167 provides that it is the duty of the Chief Minister of the State to communicate to the Governor of the State all decisions of the Council of Ministers relating to the administration of the affairs of the State and proposal for legislation as the Governor may call for, and if the Governor so requires ; to submit for the consideration of the Council of Ministers any matter on which a decision has been taken by a minister but which has not been considered by the council.

The Governor sends his report to the President regarding the failure or the possibility of a failure of the constitutional machinery of a state. When the President makes a Proclamation of Emergency for the State under Art. 356 of the Constitution, the Governor acts as the agent of the Central Government.

2. Legislative Powers:
The Governor exercises many legislative powers
(i) He is a part of the State Legislature.

(ii) He convenes the sessions of the State legislature. He is to convene the next session within a period of six months.

(iii) He can increase the duration of the session as well as adjourn the session before time.

(iv) The Governor can dissolve the legislative assembly and can order fresh elections,

(v) He can address both the chambers of the State Legislature independently or collectively,

(vi) The first session after the general election and the first session of the new year starts with the inaugural address of the Governor. In his inaugural address the Governor places before the legislature the policy of the Government for the year. He also invites the attention of the legislature towards the problems facing the state

(vii) He nominates 1/6 members of the Legislative Council and one member to the Legislative Assembly from the Anglo-Indian community if it has not got adequate representation in the chamber,

(viii) He can send messages to the legislature from, time to time.

(ix) No bill passed by the legislature can become an act without the signature of the Governor. He can reject an ordinary bill and can reserve certain types of bill for the approval of the President of India. If the legislature passes the bill for the second time the Governor will have to give his assent,

(x) He can issue ordinance, when the Legislative Assembly is not in session. The ordinances have the force of laws but they must be approved by the legislature within a period of 6 weeks from the start of the session of the legislature otherwise they will become ineffective.

3. Financial Powers:
It is the duty of the Governor to present the budget for the year before the legislature before the start of the financial year. All money bills can be introduced in the state legislature only on the recommendation of the Governor. He can spend money from the contingency fund.

4. Judicial Powers:
He enjoys some judicial powers also. The Chief Justice and ether Judges of the State High Court are appointed on the advice of the Governor. The Judges of the courts are also appointed by him. He has the power to pardon, reprieve and commute punishment. Such powers extend only in respect of cases over which the state legislature has powers to make laws. He has no powers to pardon criminals who are guilty of breaking the Union Laws.

5. As Chancellor:
The Governor of a State is the ex-officio Chancellor of the Universities in the state except the National Universities. He appoints Vice-Chancellors of these Universities. In this sphere also he is supposed to act on the advice of his Council of Ministers but Governors like Gadgil refused to be dictated by the Chief Minister in the sphere which is academic and clearly separated from the administration.

6. Miscellaneous Functions:
Besides the above functions, the Governor has also certain miscellaneous functions:

The Governor may grant help from the contingency fund to help the people in natural calamities.
The Governor receives the annual report of the Public Service Commission and with Comments of the Cabinet he sends it to the Legislative Assembly.

Position of the Governor:
The Constitution vests the executive powers of the State in the Governor. There is Chief Minister and his Council of Ministers to aid and advise the Governor. It is only in theory that the State Governor enjoys vast powers. In the State also there is a Parliamentary form of Government, therefore, the Governor is only the Constitutional or nominal head of the State.

According to Dr. Ambedkar, the Governor has no functions, not to speak of powers; he has only ‘duties’. And the duties of the Governor, he said, are mainly two:

to retain the ministry in office and to see when to exercise his pleasure for that purpose in the best possible manner ; and
to advise the ministry, to warn the ministry, and to suggest to the ministry alternation and ask for a reconsideration.

He always acts on the advice of his ministers. The powers vested in the Governor are actually exercised by the ministers. He can do nothing against or without the advice of the ministers. The leader of the majority party in the legislative assembly is to be appointed the Chief Minister of the State. The Chief Minister also recommends the names of the other ministers for appointment to the Governor. The Governor cannot add or drop any name of his own accord.

The Governor cannot remove the ministers from their office. The Cabinet remains in office so far as it enjoys the support of the majority party, The Governor summons the meetings of the legislature on the advice of the Cabinet. The inaugural address to be read by the Governor is also prepared by the Cabinet. The Governor dissolves the legislature and orders fresh election on the advice of the Cabinet, All the appointments are made by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister.

But the above mentioned facts should give us the impression that the Governor is only the nominal head of the State. He is not a rubber stamp but under certain circumstances he can act according to his own will.
1. He is the head of the State as well as the agent of the Central Government. He is to see that the State Government carries out the policies and orders of the Central Government.

2. He can appoint any member as Chief Minister if no political party has a clear cut majority in the assembly or if the party has no acknowledged leader. For example, in May, 1982 no party secured asbolute majority in Haryana Legislative Assembly. The Governor G. D. Tapase appointed Mr. Bhajan Lai, leader of the Congrss (I), as Chief Minister.

3. The Governor should be immediately informed of all Hie decisions taken by the Cabinet. The Chief Minister informs the Governor about all the decisions taken by the Cabinet. The Governor can ask the Cabinet to reconsider a decision.

4. He can refuse to sign an ordinary bill passed by the state legislature.

5. He can dismiss a ministry if he is convinced that it has lost majority support.

6. The Governor informs the President immediately regarding the failure or the possibility of a failure of the constitutional machinery of the State. He need not consult the Cabinet when he conveys such an information to the President.

7. The Governor becomes the agent of the Central Government when the President issues a proclamation of emergency in the State. The administration of the State is run by the Governor during the period of emergency. He then acts according to the orders and wishes of the President.

Question 2.
Describe how the State Council of Ministers is formed. Also discuss its powers and functions.
Or
How is the State council of ministers formed? Explain its powers.
Answer:
In the State a government, like the Central Parliamentary Government, has been established. It is written in the Constitution that there will be a council of ministers headed by the Chief Minister to ‘aid and advise the Governor. The Governor appoints the leader of the majority party as the Chief Minister and all other ministers are appointed by him on the recommendations of the Chief Minister. But the fact is that the Governor can neither appoint not remove any minister from office of his own accord.

Appointment of the Council of Ministers. The leader of the majority party in the legislative assembly is appointed Chief Minister by the Governor. Examples are on record when the Governor appointed those as Chief Ministers who were not at all the members of the State Legislature.

Mr. Sidhartha Shankar Ray was appointed the Chief Minister of West Bengal though he was not a member of the State Legislature. The Chief Minister, after his appointment, prepares a list of his colleagues and hands it over to the Governor. The Governor appoints the Ministers according to this list. The Governor cannot make any change in the list. The Chief Minister distributes portfolios among the ministers. The Chief Minister can make a change in the departments of his ministers.

Composition:
The Council of Ministers consists of the Chief Minister and other ministers. The Council of Ministers may have three or two ranks of ministers. In the Constitution 91st Amendment Act provides that the total number of ministers including the Chief Minister in a state j shall not exceed 15% of the total number of members of the Legislative Assembly.

Term of Office:
The Cabinet does not have any definite and fixed term of office. The Chief Minister can ask any minister to resign. The Cabinet remains in office so far as it enjoys the confidence of the majority of members of the House. The legislative assembly can pass a vote of no-confidence against the ministry and the ministry will vacate office.

Qualifications:
There is only one qualification for becoming a minister that he should be a member of either House of the legislature. If a person is appointed a minister and he is not a member of the legislature he will have to become a member of the legislature within a period of 6 months of his appointment otherwise he is to leave office.

Salary and Allowances:
The salary and allowances of the Chief Minister and other ministers are fixed by the state legislature and hence it varies from state to state.

Powers and Functions of Council of Ministers:
The Council of Ministers occupies the same position in the State as the Council of Ministers occupies at the Centre. They are to perform various functions:

1. Executive Powers
The ministry exercises all the executive powers of the Governor. All the departments of the Government are under the control of the ministers and it is their responsibility to run the administration smoothly. The Council of Ministers lays down the policy of Government and in the light of that the departmental work is carried out. The Council of Ministers executes the decision taken by the Cabinet. They maintain order and peace in the State. All the big and important appointments are made on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

2. Legislative Powers
(i) The Council of Ministers has a big role to play in the making of the laws for the State.

(ii) Ministers are taken from among the members of the legislature. They participate in the meetings of the legislature. They introduce bills, participate in the discussion and cast their vote.

(iii) The meetings of the legislature are summoned and adjourned on the advice of the Cabinet.

(iv) The Inaugural address of the Governor is also preapred by the Council of Ministers.

(v) Most of the bills in the legislature are introduced by the Council of Ministers and bills are rejected and passed according to the will of the Council of Ministers. Council of Ministers has the support of the party in majority in the Legislature and this party is always at the beck and call of the Cabinet. Therefore, any bill introduced by the Cabinet cannot be rejected.

(vi) The Council of Ministers, if it so desires, can ask the Governor to dissolve the Legislative Assembly. The Governor under such circumstances also is to act on the advice of the ministry.

(vii) The Council of Ministers can issue an ordinance through the State Governor.

3. Financial Powers
The budget of the State is prepared by the Council of Ministers. The money bills can only be introduced by the ministers. These are the ministers who propose imposition of taxes or suggest reduction or abolition of taxes.

4. Judicial Powers
The Governor exercises his judicial powers on the advice of the Council of Ministers. Position of the Council of Ministers during the time of Emergency. The above ‘ mentioned powers of the Council of Ministers clearly indicate that the ministry is the real ruler of the state. Its will prevails in the making; of laws, enforcing them and in the running of the administration of the State.

But during emergency the Cabinet loses its importance. When the proclamation of emergency is issued, the resident can take the administration in his own hands and in this situation the Governor acts as the agent of the President of India. The Governor then acts on the advice of the President and not on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

Question 3.
Discuss the appointment, powers and position of the State Chief Minister.
Answer:
The administration of the State is run in the name of the Governor but in practice it is the Chief Minister who runs the administration. The head of the Council of Ministers is the Chief Minister. The position of the State Chief Minister is quite the same as that of the Prime Minister in the Centre.

Appointment:
The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor. But the Governor is not free and independent in the appointment of the Chief Minister. He can appoint only the leader of the majority party in legislative assembly as the Chief Minister of the State. If the Governor appoints someone else to this post, then the administration of the state cannot be run smoothly. If no party commands absolute majority in the legislative assembly of the State or the majority party fails to elect its leader, the Governor can use some discretion in appointing the Chief Minister.

But he is to see that the Chief Minister can get the support of the majority in the legislature. For example in May, 1982 no party secured absolute majority in Haryana Legislative Assembly. The Governor G. D. Tapase appointed Congress (I) leader Mr. Bhajan Lai as the Chief Minister.

In Feb. 1997 Sardar Parkash Singh Badal was sworn as Chief Minister of Punjab. In Feb. 1998 in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly election no pprty secured absolute majority. On 6th March, 1998 Himachal Pradesh Governor Mrs. Rama Davi appointed Congress leader Veer Bhadra Singh as the Chief Minister because Congress was the single largest party in the Assembly. In March 2017, Captain Amrinder Singh was sworn as the Chief Minister of Punjab.

Term of Office:
The tenure of the Chief Minister is not fixed. The Governor cannot remove him from office of his own accord. The Chief Minister remains in office so far as he is supported by the majority of the members of the legislative assembly. The Chief Minister resigns when the majority in legislative assembly goes against him. On 12th March, 1998 Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh resigned because he was not having majority support in the Assembly.

Salary and Allowances:
The salary and allowances of the Chief Minister are fixed by the State legislature. In addition to different allowances he is given free accommodation, free medical care, travelling allowance and many other facilities.

Powers and Functions of the Chief Minister:
The Chief Minister of a State enjoys in the State, a position similar to the position of the Prime Minister in the Union of India. For all practical purposes the Chief Minister holds the executive power of the State Government in his hands. The powers and functions of the Chief Minister may be discussed as under:

1. Chief Minister and Council of Ministers:
The Council of Ministers has no . existence without the Chief Minister. Like the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister of a State is also the “key stone of the Government arch.” Chief Minister’s powers regarding Council of Ministers are as ahead:

(i) Formation of the Ministry:
The Chief Minister forms the Cabinet. After his appointment he prepares a list of other ministers and the Governor makes appointments of the ministers according to that list. No person can be appointed a minister against or without the will of the Chief Minister.

(ii) Distribution of Portfolios:
The departments are distributed among the ministers by the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister looks after the work of other ministers. He can change the departments of the ministers whenever he likes. The ministers keep the Chief Minister informed regarding the working of their departments. They get advice of the Chief Minister whenever necessary.

(iii) Removal of Ministers:
The ministers remain in office during the pleasure of the Chief Minister. The Governor cannot remove any Minister from office of his own accord, The Chief Minister can ask any minister to resign if he is not happy with his work. He can make a change in his Council of Ministers whenever he likes.The resignation of the Chief Minister means the resignation of the entire ministry. In June 1994, Haryana Chief Minister, Mr. Bhajan Lai, sacked Mr. Chhatarpal Singh, the Technical Education Minister.

(iv) Chairman of the Cabinet Meetings:
The Governor cannot participate in the meetings of the Cabinet. The Chief Minister calls the meetings of the Cabinet and presides over its meetings. He also prepares and controls the agenda for Cabinet meetings. The Cabinet takes its decisions unanimously and normally the views of the Chief Minister carry weight.

(v) Leader of the Council of Ministers:
The Chief Minister is the leader of the Council of Ministers. The entire Council of Ministers works under the captaincy of the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister summons the meetings of the Cabinet and presides over them. It is he who decides the agenda of the Cabinet. He can make a change in the agenda at the eleventh hour and put forward proposals from his own side for discussion. Being the leader of the Council of Ministers, the decisions of the Council of Ministers are practically the decisions of the Chief Minister.

2. Link Between the Council of Ministers and the Governor:
The Chief Minister informs the Governor regarding all the decisions taken by the Cabinet. The Council of Ministers takes the advice of the Governor through the Chief Minister.

3. Leadership of the Cabinet in the Legislature:
The Chief Minister can attend the meetings of both the Houses and can participate in their working. The members of the legislature ask questions to the Cabinet members and criticise their policies and actions. When a minister cannot give satisfactory reply to the criticism of a member, the Chief Minister assists the minister in satisfying the member. The important decisions taken by the Cabinet are announced in the legislature by the Chief Minister.

4. Principal Advisor of the Governor:
The Chief Minister is the principal advisor of the Governor. He takes the advice of the Chief Minister on all the issues. The Governor makes all the important appointments in the State on the advice of the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister gives every information to the Governor regarding the State administration.

5. Leader of the Legislature:
The Chief Minister is also the leader of the legislature. He is the leader of the legislative assembly because his party commands majority in
the legislature. Legislative Assembly is more important than the Legislative Council. The Legislative Council cannot stand in the way of Legislative Assembly. Therefore, the legislature generally acts under the guidance of the Chief Minister. No law can be framed without the will of the Chief Minister. During emergency also the legislature performs its functions according to the instructions of the Chief Minister.

6. Leader of the masses:
The Chief Minister is the leader of the masses in the State. He is the elected representative of the people And is supported by the majority party in the House. The people of the State are always ready to carry out the wishes of the State Chief Minister. His office is of ,great importance in the State.

Position of the Chief Minister:
In the State, the position of the Chief Minister is similar to the positon of the Prime Minister at the Centre. The Chief Minister is the man of conscience in the State. Against his wishes, neither a bill can be passed nor a tax can be levied. He is like the sun around which the ministers revolve like planets. However, the position of the Chief Minister is intimately connected with his party. If the Party enjoys a thin majority in the House or if it lacks solidarity, the position of the Chief Minister may be vulnerable. Before the 1967 general elections, the Congress Party was the master of the country. But after that the split in the party destroyed the unity of the party and ended the monopoly of power.

In most of the states coalition Governments came into power. Various political parties joined hands and formed their Governments. But a coalition Government falls under its own weight. Parties forming the Government quarrel on flimsy matters and part company, throwing the administration to dogs. Surely “when the Chief Minister heads a single party Government, his pre-eminence is unquestioned, but in a coalition or a multiparty Government his pre-eminence is derived solely from agreement among the partners.”

While depending upon the support of other parties, the Chief Minister becomes virtually a ‘prisoner’ in the hands of those parties. “It is clear that he cannot break up the coalition by seeking to dismiss the minister representing the partnership and yet claim to remain in office himself. Under such circumstances, the Chief Minister depends upon the vagaries of the legislature.

The malady of large scale defections has further affected the position of the Chief Minister. After the 1967 general elections, as many as 108 defectors were appointed ministers. What a prize A legislator of Haryana State defected four times in one single day ! There was all scramble for power ; policy and ideology were thrown to the winds. For a while, the very future of parliamentary Government in India was in danger.

Until the Congress was defeated in the sixth general election (1977) the position of a Congress Chief Minister depended largely on the kind of relations he had with the High Command and the degree of support he received from the High Command. During the Janata regime the position of the Chief Minister was not better in so far as his dependence on the Central Party leadership was concerned. After the seventh general electon (1980) and the election of Nine State Assemblies Chief Ministers were wholly dependent on late Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi, who was also president of the party [Congress (I)]. The frequent trips Congress (I) Chief Ministers made to New Delhi highlight their dependence on the Central leadership. In the present posture of politics, no Chief Minister can hope to be the Nehru of his State.

Short Answer Type Question

Question 1.
How is the Governor of a State appointed?
Answer:
Governor is the head of the state. The President appoints him for five years. One common Governor may also be appointed for two or more than two states. Provision for an elected Governor had been made in the draft of the Constitution but this idea was dropped because an elected Governor would claim some powers as the representative of the people and that would have created a dead-lock.

Therefore, provision for a nominated governor was made in the Constitution. Though the formal appointment of the Governor is made by the President, yet actually he is nominee of the Central Cabinet. In fact this is a political post and the Prime Minister and the other members of the Cabinet would like to have men of their confidence on such key posts. Normally retired or defeated politicians are appointed to these posts.

Question 2.
Describe the qualifications to become a Governor of a state.
Answer:
The following qualifications have been given in the Constitution for a Governor:

He should be a citizen of India.
He should not be less than 35 years of age.
He must not hold any office of profit.
He cannot remain a member of Parliament or a State legislature. If such a member is appointed a Governor, his seat in the legislature concerned will fall vacant as and when he takes over the charge as a Governor.
He must possess the qualifications prescribed for membership of the State legislature.

Question 3.
Explain the tenure of the Governor.
Answer:
The Governor is appointed for a period of five years. The President has the right to extend the term also. However, the Governor holds the office during the pleasure of the President which means that the Governor can be removed by the President at any time. At the time of removal no reasons have to be given by the President. The Governor may himself resign before the expiry of his term. In March, 1998, Mr. Romesh Bhandari, Governor of U.P. resigned.

Question 4.
Describe the salary and allowances of the Governor.
Answer:
The pay of the Governor is Rs. 3,50,000 per month. In addition to that he gets allowances. He is given a rent-free residence, usually named Raj Bhawan. The salary and allowances of the Governor are charged to the consolidated fund of the state are not subject to the vote of the state legislature. The Parliament may by law change the allowances or pay but the same cannot be decreased during his tenure. If any other individual acts as a Governor in his absence, he also will be entitled to the pay, allowances and other privileges of the Governor. If the same person is appointed as the Governor of more than one state, the emoluments payable to him will be fixed by the President.

Question 5.
Describe the immunities of the Governor.
Answer:
According to Art. 361, the Governor is not answerable to any court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his office or for any act done by him in the exercise of his official duties. No criminal proceedings can be instituted or continued against the Governor of a State in any Court, during his term of office. Nor any process for the arrest or imprisonment of the Governor shall be issued from any Court during his term of office.

Civil proceedings against the Governor can be instituted in any Court in respect of any act done in his personal capacity during his term of office. But a two months’ notice in writing has to be delivered to him stating the nature of the proceedings, the cause of action, the name of the party intending to sue him, and the relief demanded.

Question 6.
Write down the Legislative Powers of the Governor.
Answer:
The Governor exercises following legislative powers:

He convenes the sessions of the state legislature. He is to convene the next session within a period of six months.
The Governor can dissolve the legislative assembly and can order fresh elections.
The first session after the general election and the first session of the new year starts with the inaugural address of the Governor. .
He nominates 1/6 members of the Legislative Council.

Question 7.
Write a short note on the executive powers of the Governor.
Answer:
The Governor is the head of the State. All the executive powers of the State are vested in him. All the laws are executed in his name and he is responsible for the ‘ maintenance of peace and order in the State. All the important officials for the State are appointed by the Governor and all the employees of the State work under him. He appoints the Chief Minister and all other ministers are appointed by him on the advice of the Chief Minister. He has the power to dismiss the Council of Ministers.

Question 8.
Explain the situation in which the Governor can use discretionary powers.
Answer:
The Governor has some powers which he can use on his own. These are called discretionary powers-

He is to see that the state government carries out the policies and orders of the central government.
He can appoint any member as Chief Minister if no political party has clear cut majority in the assembly or if the party has no acknowledged leader.
He can refuse to sign an ordinary bill passed by the state legislature.
He can dismiss a ministry if he is convinced that it has lost majority support.

Question 9.
Describe the position of the Governor of a State.
Answer:
The position of the Governor in the State is the same as that of the President at the Centre. He occupies a high office but wields little power. All his powers are used by the Council of Ministers. In normal time he is only a nominal head. He has to act on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

During the emergency he exercises real powers. On his report the President dismisses the council of ministers and dissolves or suspends the legislature. The State comes under the President’s rule and the Governor acts as the real executive.

Question 10.
Under what conditions can the President rule be imposed in a State? What is the position of the Governor in such a situation?
Answer:
It sometimes becomes impossible to carry on the administration of the State according to the Constitution. It may happen that no party has a clear majority in the legislative assembly and the government may not be formed; or there is a complete break down of law and order.

In such a situation the Governor sends a report to the President. If the President dismisses the Ministry of the State on the basis of the report and suspends or dissolves the Assembly, the Governor acts as the agent of the President. He exercises all executive powers on behalf of the President. He is then responsible for the administration of the State.

Question 11.
Describe in brief the composition of the Council of Ministers at state level. .
Answer:
According to Art 163 (1) of Indian Constitution, there shall be a Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister as the head to aid and advice the Governor in exercise of his functions. The Governor appoints the Chief Minister at first. He then appoints other ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister. The Governor can’t appoint any person as a member of Council of Ministers contrary to Chief Minister’s wishes. It is the Chief Minister who decides the size of the Council of Ministers.

Question 12.
How is the Chief Minister of a State appointed?
Answer:
The Governor appoints the Chief Minister. But he cannot appoint a man of his choice as Chief Minister. He invites the leader of the majority party or group in the assembly to form the government and appoints him as the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister should be a member of the legislature. If he is not a member of the legislature at the time of his appointment he has to become one within six months.

Question 13.
How is the Chief Minister appointed when there is no single majority party?
Answer:
The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor. If no party commands absolute majority in the Legislative Assembly, the Governor can use some discretion in appointing the Chief Minister. But he is to see that the Chief Minister can get the support of the majority in the Legislative Assembly. For example in May 1982 no party secured absolute majority in Haryana Legislative Assembly, the Governor G.D. Tapase appointed Congress (I) leader Mr. Bhajan Lai as Chief Minister.

Question 14.
Write any four functions of Chief Minister of a state.
Answer:
The powers and the functions of the Chief Minister may be discussed as under:

1. Formation of Ministry:
The Chief Minister forms the Council of Ministers. He distributes portfolios among the ministers. He can make any change in the Council of Ministers.

3. Leader of the Legislature:
The Chief Minister is also the leader of the legislature. No law can be framed without the will of the Chief Minister. During emergency also the legislature performs its functions according to the instructions pf the Chief Minister.

4. Dissolution of the Assembly:
The Chief Minister can recommend to the Governor the dissolution of the Legislative Assembly even before the expiry of its term.

Question 15.
Describe the powers and functions of State Council of Ministers.
Answer:
The Council of Ministers enjoys the following powers:
1. Executive Powers:
The Council of Ministers lays down the*policy of government and in the light of that the departmental work is carried out. All the big and important appointments are made on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

2. Legislative Powers:
The meetings of the legislative are summoned and adjourned on the advice of the Council of Ministers. Most of the bills in the legislative are introduced by the Council of Ministers and bills are rejected and passed according to the will of the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers can advise the governor to dissolve the Legislative Assembly.

3. Financial Powers:
The budget of the state is prepared by the Council of Ministers. The money-bill can be introduced by the minister.

4. Judicial Powers: The Governor exercise his Judicial Powers on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

Question 16.
Write down the name of Governor and Chief Minister of Punjab.
Answer:
Sh. V. P. Singh Badnore is the Governor of Punjab and Captain Amrinder Singh is the Chief Minister of Punjab.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 2.
Explain any two qualifications to become a Governor of a state.
Answer:
The following qualifications have been given in the Constitution for a Governor:

He should be a citizen of India.
He should not be less than 35 years of age.

Question 3.
Describe the Salary and allowances of the Governor.
Answer:
The pay of the Governor is Rs. 3,50,000 per month. In addition to that he gets allowances. He is given a rent-free residence, usually named Raj Bhawan. The salary and allowances of the Governor are charged to the consolidated fund of the state are not subject to the vote of the state legislature.

Question 4.
What are the Legislative Powers of the Governor?
Answer:
The Governor exercises following legislative powers:

He convenes the sessions of the state legislature. He is to convene the next session within a period of six months.
The Governor can dissolve the legislative assembly and can order fresh elections.

Question 5.
Write a short note on the executive powers of the Governor.
Answer:
The Governor is the head of the State. All the executive powers of the State are vested in him. All the laws are executed in his name and he is responsible for the maintenance of peace and order in the State. All the important officials for the State are appointed by the Governor and all the employees of the State work under him.

Question 6.
Explain the situation in which the Governor can use discretionary powers.
Answer:
The Governor has some powers which he can use on his own. These are called discretionary powers-

He is to see that the state government carries out the policies and orders of the central government.
He can appoint any member as Chief Minister if no political party has clear cut majority in the assembly or if the party has no acknowledged leader.

Question 7.
Discuss the Financial powers of the Governor.
Answer:

All Money Bills can be introduced in the state legislature only on the recommendation of the Governor.
It is the duty of the Governor to present the budget for the year before the legislature before the start of the financial year.

Question 8.
Describe in brief the composition of the Council of Ministers at state level.
Answer:
According to Art 163 (1) of Indian Constitution, there shall be a Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister as the head to aid and advice the Governor in exercise of his functions. The Governor appoints the Chief Minister at first. He then appoints other ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister.

Question 9.
How is the Chief Minister of a State appointed?
Answer:
The Governor appoints the Chief Minister. But he cannot appoint a man of his choice as Chief Minister. He invites the leader of the majority party or group in the assembly to form the government and appoints him as the Chief Minister.

Question 10.
How is the Chief Minister appointed when there is no single majority party?
Answer:
The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor. If no party commands absolute majority in the Legislative Assembly, the Governor can use some discretion in appointing the Chief Minister. But he is to see that the Chief Minister can get the support of the majority in the Legislative Assembly.

Question 11.
Explain any two functions of Chief Minister of a state.
Answer:
The powers and the functions of the Chief Minister may be discussed as under:

Formation of Ministry: The Chief Minister forms the Council of Ministers. He distributes portfolios among the ministers. He can make any change in the Council of Ministers.
Link Between the Council of Ministers and the Governor: The Chief Minister informs the Governor regarding all the decisions taken by the Cabinet.

Question 12.
Describe the powers and functions of State Council of Ministers.
Answer:
The Council of Ministers enjoys the following powers:
1. Executive Powers:
The Council of Ministers lays down the policy of government and in the light of that the departmental work is carried out. All the big and important appointments are made on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

One Word to One Sentence Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Who is the Executive head of a State?
Answer:
Governor.

Question 2.
Who appoints the Governor?
Answer:
President.

Question 3.
Mention the tenure of the Governor.
Answer:
5 years.

Question 4.
Mention one qualification of Governor.
Answer:
He should not be less then 35 years.

Question 5.
Mention one function of the Chief Minister.
Answer:
The Chief Minister form the Cabinet.

Fill in the blanks

1. The leader of the majority party in the Legislative Assembly is appointed …………………… by the Governor.
Answer:
Chief Minister

2. The …………………… enforces the laws passed by the legislature.
Answer:
Council of Ministers

3. The head of the Council of Ministers is the …………………… .
Answer:
Chief Minister.

True or False

1. The Chief Minister is appointed by the Prime Minister.
Answer:
False

2. Governor can use some discretion in appointing the Chief Minister.
Answer:
True

3. The tenure of the Chief Minister is not fixed.
Answer:
True

4. Like Prime Minister, the Chief Minister of a state is not a ‘Key stone of the Cabinet arch”
Answer:
False

Choose The Correct Answer

Question 1.
The tenure of the Governor is:
(A 6 years
(B) 5 years
(C) 7 years
(D) 4 years.
Answer:
(B) 5 years

Question 2.
By whom is the Governor appointed?
(A) President
(B) Cabinet
(C) Prime Minister
(D) Vice-President.
Answer:
(A) President

Question 3.
The salary of the Governor is:
(A) Rs. 5,000
(B) Rs. 5,500
(C) Rs. 10,000
(D) Rs. 3,50,000.
Answer:
(D) Rs. 3,50,000.

Question 4.
Minimum age for the Governor should be:
(A) 30 years
(B) 35 years
(C) 25 years
(D) 21 years.
Answer:
(B) 35 years

Question 5.
The Governor is responsible to the:
(A) Prime Minister
(B) State Legislature
(C) Parliament
(D) President.
Answer:
(D) President.

Question 6.
Who can remove the Governor?
(A) President
(B) People
(C) Parliament
(D) State Legislature.
Answer:
(A) President

Question 7.
Who presides over the meetings of the Council of Ministers?
(A) Speaker
(B) Chief Minister
(C) Governor
(D) Home Minister.
Answer:
(B) Chief Minister

PSEB 10th Class English Grammar Simple, Complex and Compound Sentences

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 10th Class English Book Solutions English Grammar Simple, Complex and Compound Sentences Exercise Questions and Answers, Notes.

PSEB 10th Class English Grammar Simple, Complex and Compound Sentences

Analyse the following sentences, selecting the Principal Clause and the Noun Clause. Also, state the function of the Noun Clause.

(A)

1. That Mohan was a doctor was not known to me.
2. Where the boys will stay is not yet known.
3. That Mohan will stand first is certain.
4. What cannot be cured must be endured.
5. Why the thief did not take away the gold is a mystery.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	It was not known to me	that Mohan was a doctor. (Subject to the verb ‘was not known’.)
2.	It is not known yet	where the boys will stay. (Subject to the verb ‘is not known’.)
3.	It is certain	that Mohan will stand first. (Subject to the verb ‘is’.)
4.	It must be endured	what cannot be cured. (Subject to the verb ‘must be endured’.)
5.	It is a mystery	why the thief did not take away the gold. (Subject to the verb ‘is’.)

(B)

1. Ask Asha if Papa has come.
2. Can you tell me why Mohan is absent today?
3. I know that she loves music.
4. Tell me why you hate me.
5. I had never thought that your brother was so lazy.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	Ask Asha	if Papa has come. (Object to the verb ‘ask’.)
2.	Can you tell me	why Mohan is absent today ? (Object to the verb ‘tell’.)
3.	I know	that she loves music. (Object to the verb ‘know’.)
4.	Tell me	why you hate me. (Object to the verb ‘tell’.)
5.	I had never thought	that your brother was so lazy. (Object to the verb ‘thought’.)

(C)

1. My fear was that Mohan would reach late.
2. Life is what you make it.
3. It seems that it will rain soon.
4. Things are not what they appear to be.
5. My firm belief is that Harpreet will stand first.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	My fear was	that Mohan would reach late. (Complement to the verb ‘was’.)
2.	Life is	what you make it. (Complement to the verb ‘is’.)
3.	It seems	that it will rain soon. (Complement to the verb ‘seems’.)
4.	Things are not	what they appear to be. (Complement to the verb ‘are’.)
5.	My firm belief is	that Harpreet will stand first. (Complement to the verb ‘is’.)

(D)

1. Aren’t you ashamed of what you have done ?
2. She must listen to what her teacher says.
3. She agrees to whatever Mohan says.
4. There is no truth in what is stated by Asha.
5. Your success depends on how hard you work.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	Aren’t you ashamed of	what you have done ? (Object to the preposition ‘of’)
2.	She must listen to	what her teacher says. (Object to the preposition ‘to’.)
3.	She agrees to	whatever Mohan says. (Object to the preposition ‘to’.)
4.	There is no truth in	what is stated by Asha. (Object to the preposition ‘in’.)
5.	Your success depends on	how hard you work. (Object to the preposition ‘on’.)

(E)

1. The statement that all students will get two rasgullas every day is not true.
2. The news that Sania Mirza has won is correct.
3. The story that Ram Nath kidnapped his own nephew has been confirmed.
4. It is true that boys are generally taller than girls.
5. The fact that Harbhajan is a cricketer is known to all.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	The statement is not true	that all students will get two rasgullas every day. (In apposition to the noun ‘statement’.)
2.	The news is correct	that Sania Mirza has won. (In apposition to the noun ‘news’.)
3.	The story has been confirmed	that Ram Nath kidnapped his own nephew. (In apposition to the noun ‘story’.)
4.	It is true	that boys are generally taller than girls. (In apposition to the pronoun ‘it’.)
5.	The fact is known to all	that Harbhajan is a cricketer. (In apposition to the noun ‘fact’.)

(F)

1. Finding that the situation was getting worse, the police opened fire.
2. I went to the manager finding that I had been cheated by the company.
3. Thinking that he was a stranger to the city, I helped him.
4. Mohan left the meeting saying that he could not compromise with his principles.
5. We attacked the robber knowing that he was desperate to do anything.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	The police opened fire finding	that the situation was getting worse. (Object to the participle ‘finding’.)
2.	I went to the manager finding	that I had been cheated by the company. (Object to the participle ‘finding’.)
3.	I helped him thinking	that he was a stranger to the city. (Object to the participle ‘thinking’.)
4.	Mohan left the meeting saying	that he could not compromise with his principles. (Object to the participle ’saying’.)
5.	We attacked the robber knowing	that he was desperate to do anything. (Object to the participle ‘knowing’.)

(G)

1. I want to confirm if he has a hand in it.
2. We asked him to explain what he had done.
3. She wants to know how the quarrel stafted.
4. I want to know for certain if you helped the thief.
5. I want to know why he stole the money.
Answer:

	Principal Clause	Noun Clause
1.	I want to confirm	if he has a hand in it. (Object to the infinitive ‘to confirm’.)
2.	We asked him to explain	what he had done. (Object to the infinitive ‘to explain’.)
3.	She wants to know	how the quarrel started. (Object to the infinitive ‘to know’.)
4.	I want to know for certain	if you helped the thief. (Object to the infinitive ‘to know’.)
5.	I want to know	why he stole the money. (Object to the infinitive ‘to know’)

Pick out the Adjective Clauses from the following sentences and state the function of each.

1. She is the girl who helped me.
2. He killed the snake that bit his wife.
3. The habits that are formed in early age are difficult to break.
4. The furniture he gave us was worth nothing.
5. He who helps others is sure to be helped by God.
6. Such students as work hard are liked by all.
7. He who has no money has no friends.
8. This is the doctor who treated me.
9. This is the reason why she refused to marry Mohan.
10. There was not a single worker who did not go on strike.
11. I gave him such advice as was very useful.
12. Time once lost is lost for ever.
13. This is the school that the President visited.
14. I remember the village where I was born.
15. He is the man who displayed those magic tricks.
Answer:
The Adjective Clauses are :
1. ‘who helped me’ – Adjective Clause qaualifying the noun ‘girl’
2. ‘that bit his wife’ Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘snake?
3. ‘that are formed in early age’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘habits’.
4. ‘(that) he gave us’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘furniture’.
5. ‘who helps others’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the pronoun ‘he’.
6. as work hard. Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘students’.
7. ‘who has no money’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the pronoun ‘he’!
8. ‘who treated me’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘doctor’
9. ‘why she refused to marry Mohan’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the ‘noun reason’
10. ‘who did not go on strike’ – Adjective Clause qualifying he noun ‘worker’.
11. as was very useful – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘advice’.
12. (that is) once lost – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘time’.
13. that the President visited – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘school’.
14. where I was born – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘village’.
15. ‘who displayed those magic tricks’ – Adjective Clause qualifying the noun ‘man’.

Pick out the Adverb Clause from each of the following sentences and state the function of each.

(A)

1. Look before you leap.
2. No sooner did the train stop than the boys jumped out.
3. Strike the iron while it is hot.
4. The plane had landed before I reached the airport.
5. As long as you work hard, we will not throw you out.
Answer:
1. before you leap’—Adverb clause showing time.
2. No sooner did the train stop? Adverb clause showing time.
3. While it is hot’ –Adverb clause showing time.
4. before I reached the airport-Adverb clause showing time.
5. As long as you work hard-Adverb clause showing time.

(B)

1. The boat sailed where the wind took it.
2. Send the scooter where it came from.
3. I’ll go with you wherever you go.
4. He gets into trouble wherever he goes.
5. Buy this book wherever you find it.
Answer:
1. where the wind took it-Adverb clause showing place.
2. where it came from –Adverb clause showing place.
3. ‘wherever you goʻ–Adverb clause showing place.
4. ‘wherever he goes’-Adverb clause showing place.
5. wherever you find it-Adverb clause showing place.

(C)

1. Since you are late, I cannot let you in.
2. You will pass the examination because you are working hard.
3. I respect her because she is kind to me.
4. I am glad that you have acted honestly.
5. He is afraid that he may be punished.
Answer:
1. “Since you are late’-Adverb clause showing reason.
2. because you are working hard-Adverb clause showing reason.
3. because she is kind to me-Adverb clause showing reason.
4. that you have acted honestly–Adverb clause showing reason.
5. that he may be punished-Adverb clause showing reason.

(D)

1. I’ll help her provided she works hard.
2. If Mohan comes late, the teacher will punish him.
3. He won’t get the book unless he comes to me.
4. If it rains, we shall stay indoors.
5. If the bus is late, we will take a taxi.
Answer:
1. ‘provided she works hard’-Adverb clause showing condition.
2. If Mohan comes late’-Adverb clause showing condition.
3. ‘unless he comes to me-Adverb clause showing condition.
4. If it rains’-Adverb clause showing condition..
5. If the bus is late-Adverb clause showing condition.

(E)

1. Mohan is as active as he is hard-working.
2. As you sow, so shall you reap.
3. Dress as you like.
4. I know French better than you do.
5. He behaves as if he was mad.
Answer:
1. as he is hard-working-Adverb clause showing extent.
2. As you sow-Adverb clause showing manner.
3. as you like’-Adverb clause showing manner.
4. better than you do’-Adverb clause showing comparison.
5. ‘as if he was mad-Adverb clause showing manner.

(F)

1. No matter how hard up she is, she cannot be mean.
2. We shall go ahead with this business even if we suffer a great loss.
3. Although he tried hard, he did not succeed.
4. You cannot pass however hard you may try.
5. Papa did not agree though I requested him time and again.
Answer:
1. No matter how hard up she is’ — Adverb clause showing contrast.
2. ‘even if we suffer a great loss — Adverb clause showing contrast.
3. Although he tried hard’ – Adverb clause showing contrast.
4. however hard you may try – Adverb clause showing contrast.
5. though I requested him time and again’ – Adverb clause showing contrast.

Sentences तीन प्रकार के होते हैं :

1. Simple Sentence (सरल वाक्य)-जिस वाक्य की केवल एक ही Clause हो, उसे Simple Sentence कहा जाता है; जैसे
1. The boy broke his leg.
2. She washed her clothes.
3. Mohan stood first in his class.
4. I wrote a letter to my father.

2. Compound Sentence (संयुक्त वाक्य) -जिस वाक्य में दो या दो से अधिक अनाश्रित Clauses हों, उसे Compound Sentence कहा जाता है, उदाहरण के रूप में
1. Sita saw Rama and she became happy.
2. You must work hard or you will fail.
3. Many were called, but few were chosen.
4. The sun rose and the fog disappeared.
Compound Sentence की प्रत्येक Clause को Co-ordinate Clause कहा जाता है।

3. Complex Sentence (मिश्रित वाक्य) – जिस वाक्य में एक मुख्य वाक्य (Principal
Clause) हो तथा एक या एक से अधिक आश्रित वाक्य (Subordinate Clauses) हों, उसे Complex Sentence कहा जाता है।
Principal Clause को Main Clause भी कहा जाता है। Subordinate Clause को Dependent Clause भी कहा जाता है।

Kinds Of Subordinate Clauses

Subordinate Clauses तीन प्रकार की होती हैं :
1. Noun Clause
2. Adjective Clause
3. Adverb Clause

1. Noun Clause : किसी Complex Sentence में जो पद एक संज्ञा (Noun) का कार्य कर रहा हो, उसे Noun Clause कहा जाता है।
निम्नलिखित वाक्यों में तिरछे छपे हुए शब्द-समूह Noun Clause बनाते हैं :
1. That John was a thief was not known to me.
2. He was told that he must not be late again.
3. Learning that my brother had received serious injuries, I left for Shimla.

2. Adjective Clause : किसी Complex Sentence में जो पद किसी विशेषण (Adjective) का कार्य कर रहा हो, उसे Adjective Clause कहा जाता है। निम्नलिखित वाक्यों में तिरछे छपे हुए शब्द-समूह Adjective Clause बनाते हैं :
1. The company that supplied goods has failed.
2. The house where my brother lives has been sold.
3. The complaint which he made against me is false.

3. Adverb Clause : किसी Complex Sentence में जो पद किसी क्रिया-विशेषण (Adverb) का कार्य कर रहा हो, उसे Adverb Clause कहा जाता है। निम्नलिखित वाक्यों में तिरछे छपे हुए. शब्द-समूह Adverb Clause बनाते हैं :
1. When the cat is away, the mice will play.
2. Where there is a will, there is a way.
3. You should act as the doctor advises you.
अब हम Complex Sentence के सम्बन्ध में प्रत्येक प्रकार की Clause का विस्तारपूर्वक अध्ययन करेंगे।

Noun Clause

Noun Clause (संज्ञा उपवाक्य)- जिस उपवाक्य का प्रयोग प्रधान वाक्य के किसी शब्द के साथ सम्बन्ध रखने वाली संज्ञा के रूप में किया जाये, उसे Noun Clause कहा जाता है। यह संज्ञा निम्नलिखित अवस्थाओं में हो सकती हैं :
1. Subject to a Verb.
2. Object to a Verb.
3. Object to a Participle.
4. Object to an Infinitive.
5. Object to a Preposition.
6. Complement to a Verb.
7. In apposition to a Noun.
8. In apposition to a Pronoun.

अब हम प्रत्येक प्रकार की Noun Clause का विस्तारपूर्वक अध्ययन करेंगे।

1. Subject to a Verb.
1. How she reached there is a mystery.
2. That Vinod was a thief was not known to me.
3. Whether he did so is doubtful.

2. Object to a Verb.
1. He was told that he must not be late again.
2. He asked her how old she was.
3. I always do whatever is right.

3. Object to a Participle.
1. He went there thinking that he might be able to help him.
2. Seeing that the child was drowning, I jumped into the canal.
3. Fearing that he should be late, he ran all the way to the station.

4. Object to an Infinitive.
1. I was shocked to hear that his only son had died.
2. I want to know what you are doing here.
3. He came to ask if I was going to school.

5. Object to a Preposition.
1. Listen to what your teacher says.
2. The horse will sell for what it costs.
3. They were arguing about who should do it.

6. Complement to a Verb.
1. The fact is that he knows nothing
2. We are what we think.
3. It seems that he will be a great man one day.

नोट : be (is, am, are, was, were, been), seem, look, appear, become, आदि Linking Verbs के बाद प्रयुक्त होने वाले शब्द अथवा पद Complement कहलाते हैं।

7. In apposition to a Noun.
1. They took a vow that they would die for their motherland.
2. He fufilled his promise that he would help me.
3. The rumour that war has broken out is not true.

8. In apposition to the Pronoun “it.
1. It is true that he is honest.
2. See to it that the boy is not hurt.
3. It is unfortunate that he has failed.

Adjective Clause

Adjective Clause (विशेषण उपवाक्य)-जो उपवाक्य प्रधान वाक्य के किसी शब्द के सम्बन्ध में विशेषण का काम कर रहा हो, उसे Adjective Clause कहा जाता है। Adjective Clause दो अवस्थाओं में हो सकती है।

1. Qualifying a Noun.
2. Qualifying a Pronoun. अब हम प्रत्येक प्रकार की Adjective Clause का विस्तारपूर्वक अध्ययन करेंगे।

1. Qualifying a Noun.
1. The company that supplied the goods has failed.
2. The house where your brother lived has been sold.
3. The complaint he made against me is false.

2. Qualifying a Pronoun.
1. There was none but wept.
2. He that climbs too high is liable to fall.
3. All that glitters is not gold.

Adjective Clause के प्रयोग के सम्बन्ध में ध्यान रखने योग्य कुछ ज़रूरी बातें :

(1) Adjective clause को Principal clause के साथ जोड़ने के लिए प्रायः निम्नलिखित sentence linkers का प्रयोग किया जाता है

(a) Relative Pronouns : Who, whom, whose (+ noun), that, which, as, but.
1. The boys who are playing there are my students.
2. He is the man whom I gave my book.
3. She is the girl whose book was stolen.
4. You can take the pen which you like.
5. He has cut down the tree that grew in your field.
6. Nothing but hard work pays in the long run.

(b) Relative Adverbs : When, where, why.
1. We saw the house where he was born.
2. He met me on the day when I was leaving for Mumbai.
3. I told her the reason why she had failed.

(2) Who, whom तथा whose का प्रयोग मनुष्य-जाति के लिए किया जाता है; जैसे
1. He who works hard will succeed.
2. She is the girl whom I gave my books.
3. There stands the boy whose purse has been stolen.

(3) Whose का प्रयोग कई बार निर्जीव वस्तुओं के लिए भी कर लिया जाता है; जैसे
1. Draw a triangle whose sides are equal.
2. This is the house whose owner has died.

(4) Which का प्रयोग जानवरों और निर्जीव वस्तुओं के लिए किया जाता है; जैसे
1. The dog which bit him has been killed.
2. This is the watch which I wanted to buy.

(5) That का प्रयोग मनुष्य-जाति के लिए, जानवरों के लिए और निर्जीव वस्तुओं के लिए भी किया जा सकता हैजैसे
1. Happy is the man that (= who) is honest.
2. This is the house that (= which) I wanted to buy.
3. The man that (= whom) we were looking for has arrived.

किन्तु यह बात ध्यान रखने योग्य है कि that का प्रयोग whose, of which, in which, to whom, आदि के स्थान पर नहीं किया जा सकता है। यदि Relative Pronoun से पूर्व-स्थित संज्ञा बिना बताए ही स्पष्ट (understood) हो और वह नपुंसक लिंग की हो, तो Relative Pronoun के रूप में which की बजाए what का प्रयोग किया जाता है। जैसे

1. I cannot tell you what has happened. [what = the thing which]
2. I have brought what he wanted. [what = the thing(s) which]

Adverb Clause

Adverb Clause किया विशेषण उपवाक्य : जो उपवाक्य प्रधान वाक्य के किसी सब्द के सम्बन्ध में क्रिया-विशेषण का काम कर रहा हो, उसे Adverb Clause कहा जाता है। यह विशेषता निम्नलिखित
1. Time
2. Place
3. Purpose
4. Reason
5. Condition
6. Result
7. Comparison
8. Contrast
9. Manner
10. Extent.

अब हम प्रयेक प्रकार की Adverb Clause का विस्तारपूर्वक अध्ययन करेंगे

1. Showing Time.
1. When the cat is away, the mice will play.
2. Wait here till I return.
3. As soon as she saw her father, she began to cry.

2. Showing Place.
1. I went where he led me.
2. You can go wherever you like.
3. Where there is a will, there is a way.

3. Showing Purpose.
1. People work so that they may earn a living.
2. He died in order that freedom might live.
3. He ran fast lest he should miss the train.

4. Showing Reason.
1. He is unable to attend school because he is ill.
2. I cannot see you as I am not keeping well.
3. Since you are over fourteen, you will have to pay full fare.

5. Showing Condition.
1. If you work hard, you will succeed.
2. I will not go there unless you accompany me.
3. In case you come to me, I will help you.

6. Showing Result (or Effect).
1. It was so dark that we could hardly see a foot before us.
2. He is so weak that he cannot move about.
3. He is such a dull boy that he cannot understand it.

7. Showing Comparison.
1. He is as intelligent as his brother.
2. You are stronger than I am.
3. I can run faster than you.

8. Showing Contrast.
1. Although he is poor, he is honest.
2. The teacher gave him pass marks, though he deserved less.
3. Weak as he is, he does his duty.

9. Showing Manner.
1. You should follow me as I follow him.
2. He ran as if he were mad.
3. You should act as the doctor advises.

10. Showing Extent.
1. So far as I know, he has left the place.
2. The more you have, the more you want.
3. The higher you go, the cooler it is.

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 9 Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and His Martyrdom

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 9 Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and His Martyrdom Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 9 Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and His Martyrdom

Long Answer Type Questions:

Name the sincere Sikh who searched for the Ninth Guru and why?
Or
Which Sikh devotee identified the ninth Guru and why?
Or
Who found Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and why?
Or
Who discovered the ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and how?
Answer:
Before immersing with. Immortal in 1664 A.D., Guru Har Krishan Ji had hinted to the Sikh Sangat that his successor would be found at Baba Bakala. When the news reached Baba Bakala that Guru Sahib had immersed with Immortal without naming the next Guru, 22 imposters grabbed this golden opportunity and established 22 ManjitiTat- Baba Bakala. Each one of them called himself the real Guru. It was a moment of great crisis for the Sikh Panth. At such a time, a sincere Sikh, Makhan Shah Lubana found the solution to this crisis. He was a trader. Once, when his ship was caught in a storm on the high seas, he prayed to Guru Sahib, with pure heart that he would offer 500 gold mothers at the feet of Guru Ji if his ship was saved. With the blessings of Guru Ji, his ship was saved from being sunk. As per his promise, he reached Baba Bakala along with his family to offer 500 gold mohars. He was taken aback when he found 22 Gurus. He made a plan to search out the real Guru.

He went to every ‘guru’ turn by’ turn and offered two Mohars each. The impostor gurus gladly accepted these. Last of all when Makhan Shah Lubana offered two Mohars to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the latter said, ‘When your ship was sinking, you promised to offer 500 Mohars and now you are offering only two.” On hearing it, he was overjoyed. He went atop a house and shouted aloud, “Guru Ladho Re, Guru Ladho re,” which meant that I have found the real Guru. In this way the Sikhs accepted Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as their Guru.

Question 2.
Give a brief account of the travels of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
What do you know about the travels of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
During his pontificate (1664-1675 A.D.), Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji travelled extensively in and outside Punjab. The object of these travels was to dispel the ignorance of people and to preach Sikhism. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji started his travels in 1664 A.D. from Amritsar. Thereafter, he went to Walla, Ghukewali, Khadur Sahib, Goindwal Sahib, Tarn Taran, Khem Karan, Kiratpur Sahib and Bilaspur etc. After his travels in the Punjab Guru Ji travelled to the east of India. During this travel, he visited Saifabad, Dhamdhan, Delhi, Mathura, Barindaban, Agra, Kanpur, Prayag, Banaras, Gaya, Patna, Dacca (Dhaka) and Assam etc. After these travels, Guru Ji visited many famous places of Punjab along with his family. His travels proved very useful for the development of Sikhism. People in a large number came into the fold of Sikhism.

Question 3.
Give a brief account of the five travels of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji soon after assuming Guruship, undertook travels in and out of Punjab. The aim of these travels was to spread Sikhism and convey the message of truth and love to the people.

1. Amritsar: First of all Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji reached Amritsar from Baba. Bakala in November, 1664 A.D. At that time, the Harmandir Sahib was under the control of Prithi Chand’s grandson, Harji Mina. When he heard the news of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s arrival he closed all the doors of the Harmandir Sahib so that Guru Sahib might not enter it. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji reached there and found the door closed, he patiently sat for some time under a tree near the Akal Takht Sahib. Today at this place there is a small Gurdwara which is known as “Tham Sahib” or ‘The Sahib’.

2. Walla and Ghukewali : From Amritsar Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji went to a village named Walla. The women of this place vigorously participated in the Sangat and Pangat. Consequently, the Guru blessed them. After Walla, Guru Sahib went to a village called Ghukewali. Since there were mdhy trees in this village, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib named it‘Guru Ka Bagh’.

3. Banaras : After the travel of Paryag, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached ‘ Banaras. Here, the Sikh devotees thronged in large numbers to pay respect to Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and listen to his exhortations. The people of this place held the view that a bath in the Karamnash river washes away all the good deeds of a person. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib bathed in this river and said that nothing could be achieved or lost with a bath. As a man sows, so does he reap.

4. Patna : In 1666 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji reached Patna. Here the Sikh Sangat gave him a rousing reception. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji told the people the real meaning of life and enlightened them with principles of Sikhism. He sublimated Patna by calling it ‘Guru Da Ghar’ (the home of God). Leaving his wife and mother here, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji proceeded to Munghyr.

5. Dhaka: Dhaka was a chief centre of Sikhism. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji reached here the masses gave him a warm welcome. As a result of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s propagation, people in large number embraced Sikhism. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji enjoined on the Sangats to rise above worldly attachments and bonds of casteism, and recite God’s name.

Question 4.
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Or
Highlight the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Study the causes responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
1. Enmity between the Mughals and the Sikhs: The relations between the Sikhs and the Mughals were cordial till 1605 A.D. But, when in 1606 A.D., the Mughal emperor Jahangir martyred Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the situation took a new turn. During the reign of Aurangzeb, the enmity between the Sikhs and the Mughals was further intensified. This growing bitterness became the most potent cause of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom.

2. Fanaticism of Aurangzeb : In 1658 A.D., Aurangzeb became the new emperor of the Mughals. He was a staunch Sunni Muslim. He wanted to see Islam flourish in every nook and corner of India. During his reign people were forced to embrace Islam at the point of sword. Aurangzeb ordered a decree that all Sikh Gurdwaras should be demolished.

3. Impact of Naqsjbbandis on Aurangzeb: Naqshbandi was a sect of fanatic Muslims. This sect exercised a great influence upon Aurangzeb. The growing popularity of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was intolerable for this sect. The Naqshbandis panicked lest the awakening among the masses and development of Sikh religion should endanger Islam. So they started instigating Aurangzeb.

4. Spread of Sikhism: Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji undertook a number of travels in states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Bihar, Assam etc. Impressed by his teachings thousands of people embraced Sikh religion. In order to accelerate the propagation of Sikh religion, he appointed Sikh missionaries. It was all beyond Aurangzeb’s power of tolerance to see the rapidly growing power of Sikhism.

5. Call of Kashmiri Pandits : Governor of Kashmir Sher Afghan forced the Pandits to embrace Islam. When they found no way out to save their faith, a sixteen member deputation led by Pandit Kirpa Ram met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Chakk Nanaki, (Sri Anandpur Sahib) on 25th May, 1675 A.D. Guru felt greatly pleased and advised the Pandits to make a representation to the emperor stating that if the Guru could be converted to Islam they would, of their own accord, accept Islam.

Question 5.
Discuss the role played by ‘Naqashbandis’ in the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Naqashbandis was a fanatic sect of Sunni Muslims. This sect had a great influence on Aurangzeb. The growing popularity of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, spread of Sikhism and the Muslim tilt towards Guru Ji was unbearable for this sect. Naqashbandis feared that the awakening among people and the growth of Sikhism might pose a danger for Islam. Consequently, their leader Sheikh Masum left no stone unturned to incite Aurangzeb to take stern steps to curb Sikhism. His action added fuel to the fire. As a result, Aurangzeb resolved to take steps against Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Thus we can say undoubtedly that Naqashbandis have played a major role in the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Question 6.
What was the immediate cause of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
The Pandits living in Kashmir were firm believers in their religion and culture. The Hindus all over India revered them. Aurangzeb thought if these Kashmiri Pandits were converted to Islam the Hindus living in other parts of India would readily follow their example. With this object in view Aurangzeb appointed Sher Afghan as the Governor of Kashmir. Sher Afghan forced the Pandits to embrace Islam. When they found no way out to save their faith, deputation led by Pandit Kirpa Ram met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib on 25th May, 1675 A.D. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji heard the heart-rending atrocities being committed on the Kashmiri Pandits he was deeply touched. The Guru sat in deep thought. Tradition has it that at that moment the young Gobind Rai who was at that time 9 years old, entered the chamber where the Guru Ji sat along with the Kashmiri Pandits. He enquired from his father what had happened.

The Guru Ji told Gobind Rai that Aurangzeb had let loose a reign of terror. It called for a great holy man who was willing to sacrifice himself on the altar of religion. Without hesitation, Gobind Rai replied, “Who can be nobler than you, father?” On hearing this reply from the child, Guru Ji felt greatly pleasedjind decided to sacrifice himself for the protection of Hindu religion. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji then advised the Pandits to make a representation to the Emperor stating that if the Guru could be converted to Islam they would, of their own accord, adopt Islam. Then-Aurangzeb ordered the Governor of Lahore to have Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib arrested.

Question 7.
Evaluate the historical importance of martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
What were the five significant results of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Or
What were the five results of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
1. Great Historical Event : The history of the world is replete with sacrifices. These sacrifices were made either for the protection of one’s religion or for the sake of the country. But Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made supreme sacrifice for the protection of the downtrodden and for the protection of that religion to which, he himself did not belong. This example has no parallel in the history of the world. That is why Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is called ‘Hind Di Chadar’.

2. Feeling of Revenge among Sikhs : The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sent a wave of hatred and revenge in the whole Punjab against the Mughal empire. The people swore to put an end to the tyrannical rule of the Mughals.

4. Creation of the Khalsa : The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made it clear to the Sikhs that in order to defend their religion it was most essential for them to wear arms. With this end in view and to infuse a new spirit in the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji performed a great deed by creating the Khalsa Panth on the day of Baisakhi in 1699 A.D. The creation of the Khalsa gave birth to such a fearless community,, which thoroughly smashed the powerful rule of the Mughals and the Afghans in Punjab.

5. Battles between the Sikhs and the Mughals : A long drawn battle started between the Sikhs and the Mughals in the wake of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom. In these battles, the Sikhs had to face innumerable hardships but they stood firm like a rock. Despite their limited resources, the Sikhs with their matchless bravery shook the very foundations of the great Mughal empire.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give a brief description of the early life of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the ninth Guru of the Sikhs. The period of his pontificate was from 1664 to 1675 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji undertook tours to various places in and outside Punjab to spread Sikhism. He commenced a new era in the history of India by courting martyrdom for the protection of Hinduism. A brief description of early career of Guru Tegh Bahabur is as under :

1. Birth and Parentage : Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was born on 1st April, 1621 A.D. at Amritsar. He was the fifth and the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Ji. His mother’s name was Nanaki. His father predicted that this child would follow the path of truth and religion. He would save the country from disaster and cut the roots of tyranny and oppression. Guru Hargobind Ji’s prediction proved to be true.

2. Childhood and Education : The childhood name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was Tyag Mai. When he was five, arrangement was made for his education. He had the good fortune of getting education from Baba Buddha Ji and Bhai Gurdas Ji. He acquired the thorough knowledge of Punjabi, Brij and Sanskrit, History, Philosophy, Arithmetic and Music. He was also imparted training in horse-riding and use of weapons. In the battle of Kartarpur, he found the opportunity to display his bravery. His father Hargobind Sahib was greatly impressed by it and he changed his name to Tegh Bahadur.

3. Marriage : Tegh Bahadur Ji was married to Gujari who was the daughter of Lai Chand, a resident of Kartarpur. He was blessed with a son named Gobind Das.

4. Settlement at Bakala : Before his death in 1645 A.D. Guru Hargobind Ji nominated his grandson Har Rai Ji as his successor. At this instance, Tegh Bahadur Ji with his wife Gujari and mother Nanaki came to settle at Bakala. Here Tegh Bahadur Ji lived for 20 years.

5. Assumption of Guruship : In 1664 A.D. at Delhi, before breathing his last, Guru Har Kishan Sahib gave a hint to the Sikh Sangat that their next Guru- would be found at Bakala. When the news reached Baba Bakala twenty-two Sodhis, set up their twenty-two ‘Manjis’. Everyone declared himself to be the real Guru. At this juncture a Sikh named Makhan Shah Lubana found a solution. He was a trader. Once when his ship was caught in a sea-storm and was about to sink, he prayed faithfully, that if his ship reached the shore safely, he would offer 500 gold-mohars (coins) at his Guru’s feet. In order to keep his word, he along with his family came to Baba Bakala to offer 500 mohars at Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s feet.

He was bewildered to see 22 impostor gurus. He conceived of an idea to find out the real Guru. One by one, he went to each Guru and offered two mohars. The impostor gurus were delighted to receive two mohars. When Makhan Shah finally reached Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and offered him two mohars, Guru Sahib said, “You promised to offer 500 mohars, when your ship was about to sink but now you are offering only two mohars.” On hearing this Makhan Shah felt very glad and shouted loudly from the roof of the house : “Guru ladho re, Guru ladho re ” which meant “Guru has been found, Guru has been found”. In this way, the Sikhs accepted Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as their ninth Guru. He held Guruship from 1664 AD. to 1675 AD.

6. Opposition of Dhir Mai: Dhir Mai, the elder brother of Guru Har Rai Ji, had been seeking for Guruship for long. One of the twenty-two ‘Manjis’ set up at Baba Bakala, was that of Dhir Mai also. When Dhir Mai received the news that the Sikhs had accepted Tegh Bahadur Ji as their Guru he alohg with hundred armed men raided the house of the Guru. This incident provoked the Sikhs. They arrested and produced Dhir Mai before Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib but he forgave Dhir Mai when the latter begged to be pardonded.

Travels Of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji:

Question 2.
Give a brief account of the religious tours of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Narrate the travels undertaken by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for preaching Sikhisms.
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji soon after assuming Guruship, undertook travels in and out of Punjab. The aim of these travels was to spread Sikhism and convey the message of truth and love to the people. Writing about the purpose of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s travels, S.S. Johar aptly says, “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji thought it necessary to infuse a new life and rekindle a new spirit among the people.”

Travels of the Punjab:

1. Amritsar: First of all Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Amritsar from Baba Bakala in November, 1664 A.D. At that time, the Harmandir Sahib was under the control of Prithi Chand’s grandson, Harji Mina. He, with the help of some corrupt Masands had declared himself the Guru. When, he heard the news of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s arrival. So, he closed all the doors of the Harmandir Sahib so that Guru Sahib might not enter it. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached there and found the door closed, he patiently sat for some time under a tree near the Akal Takht Sahib. Today at this place there is a small Gurdwara which is known as “Tham Sahib” or ‘Thara Sahib’.

2. Walla and Ghukewali: From Amritsar Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji went to a village named Walla. The women of this place vigorously participated in the Sangat and Pangat. Consequently, the Guru blessed them. After Walla, Guru Sahib went to a village called Ghukewali. Since there were many trees in this village, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib named it ‘Guru Ka Bagh’.

3. Khadur Sahib, Goindwal Sahib, Tarn Taran, Khemkaran etc : From Khadur Sahib and Goindwal Sahib, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Tarn Taran. Tarn Taran had become a famous propagation centre of Sikhism. Afterwards Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib ^went to Khemkaran. Here a devout named, Chaudhary Raghupat Rai presented Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib a mare.

4. Kiratpur Sahib and Bilaspur: After his travels in the Majha region, Guru Sahib reached Kiratpur Sahib. At the invitation of Rani Champa, he reached Bilaspur. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib stayed here for three days. During his stay Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib purchased a piece of land at Makhowal for Rs. 500 from the Rani. Here Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib founded a new town in June 1665 A.D. which was named ‘Chak Nanaki’ after the name of his mother. Later on, it became famous as Sri Anandpur (The City of Bliss) Sahib.

Travels of Eastern India:

After the travels of Punjab, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib started his travels of Eastern India. A brief account of these travels is as follows :

5. Saifabad and Dhamdhan: In August 1665 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Saifabad and Dhamdhan. Here the people congregated in large numbers to pay respect to Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. Aurangzeb could not tolerate the increasing propagation of Sikhism. He sent Alam Khan Rohilla to Dhamdhan to arrest Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. Consequently, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was apprehended in November 1665 A.D. and brought to Delhi.

6. Mathura and Brindaban : From Delhi Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib went to Mathura and Brindaban. Here the Guru explained to his audience the virtue of prayer and the value of service to the people.

7. Agra and Prayag: From Mathura, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Agra. Here, he stayed at the house of an aged devotee, Mai Jassi. After this, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib went to Prayag. Here Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib met a group of saints and yogis. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib preached them ‘Sadho Man Ke Maan Tiyago’ (O saints shun your pride).

8. Banaras : After the travel of Paryag, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Banaras. Here, the Sikh devotees thronged in large numbers to pay respect to Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and listen to his exhortations. The people of this place held the view that a bath in the Karamnash river washes away all the good deeds of a person. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib bathed in this river and said that nothing could be achieved or lost with a bath. As a man sows, so does he reap.

9. Sasram and Gaya. From Banaras Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Sasram. Here a devotee Sikh ‘Masand Phaggu Shah’ served Guru Sahib very sincerely. Then Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji visited Gaya which was the chief centre of Buddhism. Here Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib denounced casteism and preached worship of one God.

10. Patna : In 1666 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached Patna. Here the Sikh Sangat gave him a rousing reception. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib told the people the real meaning of life and enlightened them with principles of Sikhism. He sublimated Patna by calling it ‘Guru Da Ghar’ (the home of God). Leaving his wife and mother here,. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib proceeded to Munghyr.

11. Dhaka: Dhaka was a chief centre of Sikhism, When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji reached here the masses gave him a warm welcome. As a result of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s propagation, people in large number embraced Sikhism. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib enjoined on the Sangats to *ise above worldly attachments and bonds of casteism, and recite God’s name.

12. Assam : On the request of Ram Singh, the ruler of Ambar, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib went with him to Assam. The Assamese were deft at sorcery. Out of this fear the Mughal forces were always defeated by the Assamese rulers. This time in the presence of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, their sorcery failed and they had to face defeat. They came to pay obeisance to this great man, who frustrated their sorcery, and also begged pardon of him.
After this Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib with his family returned to Punjab and settled at Chak Nanaki.

Tours of Malwa and Bangar Region:

In the middle of 1673 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib revisited the Malwa and Bangar regions of Punjab. During this tour, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib visited many places. Of these Saifabad, Mallowal, Sakha, Dhilwan Joga, Khiwa, Khiala, Maur, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda and Damdhan were prominent. During these travels, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib completely identified himself with the sorrows and sufferings of the people. Through his message and teachings, he tried to awaken the people to their responsibility and grim realities of human existence. Impressed

Martyrdom of Guru Tech Bahabur Ji:

Question 3.

What were the causes responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji? When, where and how he was executed?
Or
What were the main causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and what is its importance?
Or
Describe the causes and significance of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Describe the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. What were the effects of his martyrdom?
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom is a unique event of world history. History is replete with many examples of such great men, who sacrificed their lives for the protection of their religion or their country. But it is difficult to find an example of martyrs like Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who sacrificed his life for the protection of others’ religion.

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 9 Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and His Martyrdom Img 1

Causes of Martyrdom:

1. Enmity between the Mughals and the Sikhs : The relations between the Sikhs and the Mughals were cordial till 1605 A.D. But, when in 1606 A.D., the Mughal emperor martyred Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the situation took a new turn. He detained Guru Hargobind Sahib in the fort of Gwalior for two years. During the reign of Shah Jahan, Guru Hargobind Ji had to fight four battles against the Mughals. During the reign of Aurangzeb, the enmity between the Sikhs and the Mughals was further intensified. This growing bitterness became the most potent cause of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom.

2. Fanaticism of Aurangzeb : In 1658 A.D., Aurangzeb became the new emperor of the Mughals. He was a staunch Sunni Muslim. He wanted to see Islam flourish in every nook and corner of India. He got many famous temples of the Hindus demolished and mosques built in their places. Restrictions were imposed on Hindu festivals and ceremonies. During his reign people were forced to embrace Islam at the point of sword. Aurangzeb ordered a decree that all Sikh Gurdwaras should be demolished. According to Dr. I.B. Banerjee, “Necessarily on the ‘accession of Aurangzeb the entire policy of the Empire was reversed and a new era commenced.”

3. Impact of Naqshbandis on Aurangzeb : Naqshbandi was a sect of fanatic Muslims. This sect exercised a great influence upon Aurangzeb. The growing popularity of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was intolerable for this sect. The Naqshbandis panicked lest the awakening among the masses and development of Sikh religion should endanger Islam. So they started instigating Aurangzeb.

4. Spread of Sikhism : Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib undertook a number of travels in states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Bihar, Assam etc. Impressed by his teachings thousands of people embraced Sikh religion. In order to accelerate the propagation of Sikh religion, he appointed Sikh missionaries. It was all beyond Aurangzeb’s power of tolerance to see the rapidly growing power of Sikhism.

5. Enmity of Ram Rai: Ram Rai was the elder brother of Guru Har Krishan Ji. When Sikh Sangat accepted Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as their next Guru, he could not reconcile with the turn of the tide. He wanted to snatch the Gurgaddi by force. However, when all his tactics to capture Gurgaddi failed, he started poisoning Aurangzeb’s ears against Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib.

6. Call of Kashmiri Pandits : The Pandits living in Kashmir were firm believers in their religion and culture. The Hindus all over India revered them. Aurangzeb thought if these Kashmiri Pandits were converted to Islam the Hindus living in other parts of India would readily follow their example. With this object in view Aurangzeb appointed Sher Afghan as the Governor of Kashmir. Sher Afghan forced the Pandits to embrace Islam. When they found no way out to save their faith, a sixteen member deputation led by Pandit Kirpa Ram met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Chakk Nanaki, (Sri Anandpur Sahib) on 25th May, 1675 A.D. They sought Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s help. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji heard the heart-rending atrocities being committed on the Kashmiri Pandits, he was deeply touched. It was the Gordian knot that had to be cut. The Guru sat in deep thought. At that moment the young Gobind Rai, who was at that time 9 years old, entered the chamber where the Guru sat along with the Kashmiri Pandits. He was struck with the unusual stillness of the room and enquired from his father what had happened.

The Guru told Gobind Rai that Aurangzeb had let loose a reign of terror. Someone had to face the emperor and tell him that he was treading a wrong path. It was a stupendous task. It called for a great holy man, who was willing to sacrifice himself on the altar of religion. Without hesitation, Gobind Rai replied, “Who can be nobler than you, father?” On hearing this reply from the child, Guru felt greatly pleased and advised the Pandits to make a representation to the emperor stating that if the Guru could be converted to Islam they would, of their own accord, accept Islam.

How was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Martyred?:

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with his three companions Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji and Bhai Dyala Ji proceeded from Chakk Nanaki (Sri Anandpur Sahib) to Delhi on July 11,1675 A.D. Mughal official arrested Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and his companions near Ropar. He was kept in a prison at Sirhind for four months. As ordered by Aurangzeb, he was taken to Delhi on 6th November, 1675 A.D. and produqed in his court. Aurangzeb suggested him to embrace Islam and also threatened to put him to death in case, he refused to do so. But, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and his three companions categorically refused to embrace Islam. In order to demoralise Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, his three companions Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji and Bhai Dyala Ji were tortured to death before him. After this Guru Sahib was asked to show some miracle but Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib refused to oblige. Consequently, on 11th November, 1675 A.D. he was beheaded at Chandni Chowk in Delhi. According to the famous historians Harbans Singh and L.M. Joshi, “This was a most moving and earthshaking event in the history of India.”

At the place, where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred, stands the Gurdwara Sis Ganj. On the fateful night, a devotee, Bhai Lakhi Shah, with the help of his sons brought the body of the Guru to his home in a cart covered with heavy cotton bales. In order to cremate the body of the Guru, he instantly set his house on fire. Gurdwara Rakab Ganj stands here, today.

Significance of the Martyrdom:

The great martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji shook the whole humanity. This martyrdom marked the beginning of a new era not only in the history of Punjab, but also in the history of India. In the words of Dr. Trilochan Singh,
“The impact of the great sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur was extremely powerful and far-reaching in its consequences on the Sikh people.”

1. Great Historical Event: The history of the world is replete with sacrifices. These sacrifices were made either for the protection of one’s religion or for the sake of the country. But Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made supreme sacrifice for the protection of the downtrodden and for the protection of that religion to which, he himself did not belong. This example has no parallel in the history of the world. That is, why Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is called ‘Hind Di Chadar’.

3. Protection of Hinduism : Aurangzeb wanted to convert the whole of India to Islam. With this end in view he had let loose a reign of terror. A large number of Hindus were daily put to death. Consequently, many Hindus had started adopting Islam. The very existence of the Hindu religion was exposed to a great danger. Under such times, when the Hindus saw no ray of hope, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji gave his own sacrifice in order to protect the Hindu faith. This martyrdom made it clear to Aurangzeb that it was totally impossible to convert the whole Hindu community to Islam.

4. Creation of the Khalsa : The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made it clear to the Sikhs that in order to defend their religion it was most essential for them to wear arms. With this end in view and to infuse a new spirit in the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh performed a great deed by creating the Khalsa Panth on the day of Baisakhi in 1699 A.D. The creation of the Khalsa gave birth to such a fearless community, which thoroughly smashed the powerful rule of the Mughals and the Afghans in Punjab.

5. Beginning of the Tradition of Sacrifice*: After the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a tradition of making sacrifice for religion started among the Sikhs. While treading this path, Guru Gobind Singh Ji underwent several untold sufferings. His younger sons were bricked up alive in a wall. The elder sons and many devoted Sikhs, who were beloveds of Guru Sahib fell .martyrs in battles. After Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Banda Singh Bahadur along with hundreds of Sikhs gave their sacrifices. After Mughals, the Afghans subjected the Sikhs to untold and unbearable sufferings. The blood of the martyrs infused a new confidence amongst the Sikhs.

6. Battles between the Sikhs and the Mughals : A long drawn battle started between the Sikhs and the Mughals in the wake of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom. In these battles, the Sikhs had to face innumerable hardships but they stood firm like a rock. Despite their limited resources, the Sikhs with their matchless bravery shook the very foundations of the great Mughal empire. Finally, we agree to these words of famous historian, S.S. Johar, “The Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur was an event of great significance in the history of India. It had far-reaching consequences.”

Question 4.
The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji had far-reaching consequences on Sikh History. Discuss.
Answer:

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom is a unique event of world history. History is replete with many examples of such great men, who sacrificed their lives for the protection of their religion or their country. But it is difficult to find an example of martyrs like Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who sacrificed his life for the protection of others’ religion.

Causes of Martyrdom:

2. Fanaticism of Aurangzeb : In 1658 A.D., Aurangzeb became the new emperor of the Mughals. He was a staunch Sunni Muslim. He wanted to see Islam flourish in every nook and corner of India. He got many famous temples of the Hindus demolished and mosques built in their places. Restrictions were imposed on Hindu festivals and ceremonies. During his reign people were forced to embrace Islam at the point of sword. Aurangzeb ordered a decree that all Sikh Gurdwaras should be demolished. According to Dr. I.B. Banerjee,
“Necessarily on the ‘accession of Aurangzeb the entire policy of the Empire was reversed and a new era commenced.”

The Guru sat in deep thought. At that moment the young Gobind Rai, who was at that time 9 years old, entered the chamber where the Guru sat along with the Kashmiri Pandits. He was struck with the unusual stillness of the room and enquired from his father what had happened. The Guru told Gobind Rai that Aurangzeb had let loose a reign of terror. Someone had to face the emperor and tell him that he was treading a wrong path. It was a stupendous task. It called for a great holy man, who was willing to sacrifice himself on the altar of religion. Without hesitation, Gobind Rai replied, “Who can be nobler than you, father?” On hearing this reply from the child, Guru felt greatly pleased and advised the Pandits to make a representation to the emperor stating that if the Guru could be converted to Islam they would, of their own accord, accept Islam.

How was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Martyred?

In order to demoralise Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, his three companions Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji and Bhai Dyala Ji were tortured to death before him. After this Guru Sahib was asked to show some miracle but Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib refused to oblige. Consequently, on 11th November 1675 A.D., he was beheaded at Chandni Chowk in Delhi. According to the famous historians Harbans Singh and L.M. Joshi,
“This was a most moving and earthshaking event in the history of India.”

Significance of the Martyrdom:

The great martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji shook the whole of humanity. This martyrdom marked the beginning of a new era not only in the history of Punjab but also in the history of India. In the words of Dr Trilochan Singh, “The impact of the great sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur was extremely powerful and far-reaching in its consequences on the Sikh people.”

2. Feeling of Revenge among Sikhs: The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sent a wave of hatred and revenge in the whole Punjab against the Mughal empire. The people swore to put an end to the tyrannical rule of the Mughals.

3. Protection of Hinduism: Aurangzeb wanted to convert the whole of India to Islam. With this end in view, he had let loose a reign of terror. A large number of Hindus were daily put to death. Consequently, many Hindus had started adopting Islam. The very existence of the Hindu religion was exposed to great danger. During such times, when the Hindus saw no ray of hope, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji gave his own sacrifice in order to protect the Hindu faith. This martyrdom made it clear to Aurangzeb that it was totally impossible to convert the whole Hindu community to Islam.

4. Creation of the Khalsa: The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made it clear to the Sikhs that in order to defend their religion it was most essential for them to wear arms. With this end in view and to infuse a new spirit in the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh performed a great deed by creating the Khalsa Panth on the day of Baisakhi in 1699 A.D. The creation of the Khalsa gave birth to such a fearless community, which thoroughly smashed the powerful rule of the Mughals and the Afghans in Punjab.

5. Beginning of the Tradition of Sacrifice*: After the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a tradition of making sacrifices for religion started among the Sikhs. While treading this path, Guru Gobind Singh Ji underwent several untold sufferings. His younger sons were bricked up alive in a wall. The elder sons and many devoted Sikhs, who were beloveds of Guru Sahib fell .martyrs in battles. After Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Banda Singh Bahadur along with hundreds of Sikhs gave their sacrifices. After the Mughals, the Afghans subjected the Sikhs to untold and unbearable sufferings. The blood of the martyrs infused new confidence amongst the Sikhs.

6. Battles between the Sikhs and the Mughals: A long-drawn battle started between the Sikhs and the Mughals in the wake of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom. In these battles, the Sikhs had to face innumerable hardships but they stood firm like a rock. Despite their limited resources, the Sikhs with their matchless bravery shook the very foundations of the great Mughal empire. Finally, we agree to these words of the famous historian, S.S. Johar, “The Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur was an event of great significance in the history of India. It had far-reaching consequences.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Name the sincere Sikh who searched for the Ninth Guru and why?
Or
Which Sikh devotee identified the ninth Guru and why?
Or
Who searched Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and why?
Answer:
Before breathing his last in 1664 A.D., Guru Har Krishan Ji had hinted to the Sikh Sangat that their successor would be found at Baba Bakala. At this 22 impostors grabbed the opportunity and established 22 Manjis at Baba Bakala. Each one of them called himself, the real Guru. At such a time, a sincere Sikh, Makhan Shah Lubana found the solution to this crisis. When Makhan Shah Lubana offered two mohars to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the latter said, “When your ship was sinking, you promised to offer 500 mohars and now you are offering only two.” On hearing it, he was overjoyed. He went &top a house and shouted aloud, “Guru Ladho Re, Guru Ladho re,” which meant that I have found the real Guru.

Question 3.
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Or
Highlight the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Write any three causes of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Study the causes responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Write down the main reasons for the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:

Aurangzeb’s fanaticism became the main cause of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom,
Aurangzeb could not tolerate the existence of any other religion except Islam,
Ram Rai incited Aurangzeb against Guru Ji, as he himself wanted to get Guruship.
The outcry of Kashmiri Pandits to save the Hindu religion became the immediate cause of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom.

Question 4.
Discuss the role played by ‘Naqshbandis’ in the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Naqashbandis was a fanatic sect of Sunni Muslims. The growing popularity of Guru Ji, spread of Sikhism and the Muslim tilt towards Guru Ji was unbearable for this sect. Consequently, their leader Shaikh Masoom left no stone unturned to incite Aurangzeb to take stern steps to curb Sikhism. His action added fuel to the fire. As a result, Aurangzeb resolved to take steps against Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. ’

Question 5.
What was the immediate cause of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Or
Why did Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji help the Kashmiri Brahmans?
Answer:
During the reign of Aurangzeb Sher Afghan, the Governor of Kashmir forced the Pandits to embrace Islam. When they found no way out to save their faith, a deputation led by Pandit Kirpa Ram met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib on 25th May, 1675 A.D. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji heard the heart-rending atrocities being committed on the Kashmiri Pandits, he was deeply touched. So Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji decided to sacrifice himself for the protection of Hindu religion.

Question 6.
Evaluate the historical importance of martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Explain the importance of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
What is the importance of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?

Answer:
The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji had far-reaching consequences. The whole of Punjab began to bum with indignation as a result of this martyrdom. It also proved that tyranny would continue to be perpetuated as long as there was the Mughal rule. So Guru Gobind Singh Ji resolved to put an end to the tyranny and injustice of the Mughals. With this end in view, he founded Khalsa Panth in 1699 A.D. After it a long-drawn struggle started between the Sikhs and the Mughals. It shattered the very foundation of the Mughal empire.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was the ninth Guru of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Question 2.
Where was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji born?
Answer:
Amritsar.

Question 3.
When was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji born?
Answer:
1 April, 1621 A.D.

Question 4.
Name the mother of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Mata Nanaki Ji.

Question 5.
Name the father of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 6.
What was the childhood name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
Tyag Mai.

Question 7.
What is meant by Tegh Bahadur?
Answer:
Expert in the art of swordsmanship.

Question 8.
To whom was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji married?
Answer:
Gujari Ji.

Question 9.
What was the name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s son?
Answer:
Gobind Das or Gobind Rai.

Question 10.
Who identified Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as a Guru at Baba Bakala?
Answer:
Makhan Shah Lubana.

Question 11.
Who said, “Guru Ladho Re, Guru Ladho Re.”?
Answer:
Makhan Shah Lubana.

Question 12.
For how long did Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji remain on Gurgaddi?
Answer:
1664 A.D. to 1675 A.D.

Question 13.
Name any one place visited by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Delhi.

Question 14.
Name any one place of Punjab visited by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Amritsar.

Question 15.
What was the original name of Sri Anandpur Sahib?
Answer:
Makhowal or Chak Nanaki.

Question 16.
What was the main cause of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
Aurangzeb couldn’t tolerate the increasing power of the Sikhs.

Question 17.
What was the main reason for the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
The Guru’s decision to protect the Kashmiri Pandits.

Question 18.
Who was the Subedar of Kashmir who committed atrocities on Kashmiri Pandits?
Answer:
Sher Afghan.

Question 19.
Under whose leadership a delegation of Kashmiri Pandit met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib?
Answer:
Pandit Kirpa Ram.

Question 20.
Which Guru gave his martyrdom for the protection of Hindu religion?
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Question 21.
Where was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred?
Answer:
Chandani Chotvk, Delhi.

Question 22.
In which Mughal ruler’s regime the execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji took place?
Or
Who was the ruler at the time of martyrdom of Ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Or
Name the Mughal emperor by whose order Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred?
Answer:
Aurangzeb.

Question 23.
When was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred?
Answer:
Nov. 11, 1675 A.D.

Question 24.
Name the three Sikh disciples who were executed before the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Or
Name three followers of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji who were executed along with him.
Answer:

Bhai Mati Das Ji,
Bhai Sati Das Ji and
Bhai Dyala Ji.

Question 25.
Which Gurdwara has been raised at the place where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred?
Answer:
Gurdwara Sis Ganj.

Question 26.
Where was Gurdwara Sis Ganj constructed?
Answer:
Delhi.

Question 27.
Mention any one result of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom.
Or
What was a consequence of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
Answer:
A chapter of long drawn struggle between the Sikhs and the Mughals started.

Question 28.
For whom did Guru Gobind Singh Ji use the words Rangrete Guru Ke Bete?
Answer:
Bhai Jaita Ji.

Question 29.
Which Guru Sahib is called Hind Ki Chaddar?
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Fill in the blanks:

1. ………………… was the ninth Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

2. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was born at ………………..
Answer:
Amritsar

3. The name of the father of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was ………………..
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji

4. The name of the mother of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was ………………..
Answer:
Nanaki

5. The childhood name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was …………….
Answer:
Tyagmal

6. The name of the son of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was …………………
Answer:
Gobind Rai

7. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur*Ji was searched by ………………
Answer:
Makhan Shah Lubana

8. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji assumed Guruship in ……………
Answer:
664 A.D.

9. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji started his travels from ………………
Answer:
Amritsar

10. The town Chak Nanaki was established by ……………….
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

11. Aurangzeb reimposed Jaziya tax on Hindus in ………………
Answer:
1679 A.D.

12. Ram Rai was the ………………… son of Guru Har Rai Ji.
Answer:
eldest

13. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred by the order of ………………
Answer:
Aurangzeb

14. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred on ………………… at Delhi.
Answer:
Nov. 11, 1675 A.D.

15. ………………… was raised at the place of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom.
Answer:
Gurdwara Sis Ganj

16. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji hugged ……………… and said ‘Rangreta Guru Ke Beta’.
Answer:
Bhai Jaita Ji

17. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji addressed to ………………… and ‘Rangrette Guru Ke Bete’.
Answer:
Bhai Jaita Ji

18. The name of the Jallad was …………….. who martyred Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
Jalaludin

19. ……………….. is known as Hind-Di-Chadar.
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

True or False:

1. The ninth Guru of the Sikhs was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
True

2. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was born at Amritsar.
Answer:
True

3. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was born in 1621 A.D.
Answer:
True

4. The name of the father of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was Har Krishan Ji.
Answer:
False

5. Gujari was the name of the mother of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
False

6. The childhood name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was Tyag Mai.
Answer:
True

7. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s son name was Gobind Rai.
Answer:
True

8. Makhan Shah Lubhana identified Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
Answer:
True

9. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji succeeded to Guruship in 1664 A.D.
Answer:
True

10. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji reached Amritsar first during his travels.
Answer:
True

11. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji laid the foundation of Chak Nanaki.
Answer:
True

12. Aurangzeb reimposed Jaziya tax on Hindus in 1664 A.D.
Answer:
False

13. Sher Afghan was the Governor of Kashmir at the time of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
True

14. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred on the orders of Aurangzeb.
Answer:
True

15. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred on November 11, 1675 A.D.
Answer:
True

16. Gurdwara Rakab Ganj was raised at the place of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom.
Answer:
False

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the ninth Guru of the Sikhs?
(a) Guru Amar Das Ji
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji
(c) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

2. When was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji born?
(a) In 1601 A.D.
(b) In 1621 A.D.
(c) In 1631 A.D.
(d) In 1656 A.D.
Answer:
(b) In 1621 A.D.

3. What was the childhood name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
(a) Hari Mai Ji
(b) Tyag Mai Ji
(c) Bhai Lehna Ji
(d) Bhai Jetha Ji.
Answer:
(b) Tyag Mai Ji

4. What was the name of the father of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
(a) Guru Hargobind Ji
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji
(c) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(d) Baba Gurditta Ji.
Answer:
(a) Guru Hargobind Ji

5. What was the name of the mother of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
(a) Gujari Ji
(b) Sulakhni Ji
(c) Nanaki Ji
(d) Ganga Devi Ji.
Answer:
(c) Nanaki Ji

6. To whom was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji married?
(a) Nihal Kaur Ji
(b) Gujari Ji
(c) Sulakhni Ji
(d) Sabrai Devi Ji.
Answer:
(b) Gujari Ji

7. What was the name of son of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
(a) Har Rai Ji
(b) Arjan Dev Ji
(c) Ram Rai Ji
(d) Gobind Rai Ji.
Answer:
(d) Gobind Rai Ji.

8. Name the person whose efforts proved that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the real Guru of the Sikhs?
(a) Makhan Shah Mastuana
(b) Makhan Shah Lubhana
(c) Baba Buddha Ji
(d) Bhai Gurdas Ji.
Answer:
(b) Makhan Shah Lubhana

9. When did Guru Tegh Bahadur assume Guruship?
(a) In 1661 A.D.
(b) In 1664 A.D.
(c) In 1665 A.D.
(d) In 1666 A.D.
Answer:
(b) In 1664 A.D.

10. Which town was first visited by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
(a) Goindwal Sahib
(b) Khadur Sahib
(c) Amritsar
(d) Kiratpur Sahib
Answer:
(c) Amritsar

11. Which town was founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 1665 A.D.?
(a) Chak Nanaki
(b) Bilaspur
(c) Sahnewal
(d) Kiratpur Sahib.
Answer:
(a) Chak Nanaki

12. What is the latest name of Chak Nanaki?
(a) Tarn Taran
(b) Bilaspur
(c) Khadur Sahib
(d) Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Answer:
(d) Sri Anandpur Sahib.

13. What was the cause of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
(a) Fanaticism of Aurangzeb
(b) Call of Kashmiri Pandits
(c) Opposition of Naqshbandis
(d) Enmity of Ram Rai.
Answer:
(b) Call of Kashmiri Pandits

14. Which Mughal emperor ordered the execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
(a) Jahangir
(b) Shah Jahan
(c) Aurangzeb
(d) Bahadur Shah.
Answer:
(c) Aurangzeb

15. Where was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred?
(a) Lahore
(b) Delhi
(c) Amritsar
(d) Patna
Answer:
(b) Delhi

16. When was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred?
(a) In 1661 A.D.
(b) In 1664 A.D.
(c) In 1665 A.D.
(d) In 1675 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1675 A.D.

17. Which Gurudwara has been raised at the place where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred?
(a) Sis Ganj
(b) Rakab Ganj
(c) Bala Sahib
(d) Darbar Sahib.
Answer:
(a) Sis Ganj

18. Which Guru is known as ‘Hind-Di-Chadar’?
(a) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(b) Guru Hargobind Ji
(c) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
(c) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 8 Guru Har Rai Ji and Guru Har Krishan Ji

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 8 Guru Har Rai Ji and Guru Har Krishan Ji Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 8 Guru Har Rai Ji and Guru Har Krishan Ji

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Why is the pontificate of Guru Har Rai Ji considered important in the development of Sikhism?
Or
Write a short note on Guru Har Rai Ji.
Or
What do you know about Guru Har Rai Ji?
Answer:
1. Development of Sikhism under Guru Har Rai Ji: The pontificate of Guru Har Rai Sahib lasted from 1645 to 1661 A.D. To carry on his propagation work, he set up three famous centres which were known as bakhshishes’ or missionary centres. The first bakhshish’ was that of an ascetic named Bhagat Gir. He set up many centres for the propagation of Sikhism in East India. Of these, Patna, Bereilley and Rajgir are the famous ones. Likewise, Suthara Shah was sent to Delhi, Bhai Pheru to Rajasthan, Bhai Gonda Ji was sent to Kabul, Bhai Natha Ji to Dacca and Bhai Jodha Ji. to Multan. Guru Har Rai Sahib himself travelled to different places of Punjab namely Jalandhar, Kartarpur, Palahi, Hakimpur, Mukandpur, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Patiala, Ambala, Karnal, Hissar etc.

2. Phul Blessed: One day a devotee named Kala with his nephew, Phul came to visit Guru Har Rai Sahib. Guru Sahib’s eyes fell on Paul, who was slapping his belly with his hand. On enquiry, Kala told Guru Sahib that he was hungry and wanted something to eat. Guru Sahib took compassion on him and said, “He shall become great, famous and wealthy. His descendants shall drink water as far as the Jamuna. They shall have sovereignty for many generations and be honoured in proportion as they serve the Guru.” ’
The blessing of Guru Har Rai Ji proved to be true. The generation of Phul laid the foundation of Phulkian Misl.

3. Help to Prince Dara: During the pontificate of Guru Har Rai Ji, Dara Shikoh was the Governor of Punjab. He was the elder brother of Aurangzeb. In a bid to capture power Aurangzeb poisoned Para’s food. Consequently, he fell seriously ill. Dara begged Guru Har Rai Ji to treat him. Guru Har Rai Ji cured Dara with the rarest of herbs. As a result, Dara felt deeply obliged to Guru Har Rai Ji. He would often come to pay a visit to Guru Har Rai Ji.

4. Guru Har Rai Ji Summoned to Delhi: Aurangzeb had the suspicion that some hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib were against Islam. In order to, get it confirmed, he asked Guru Har Rai Ji to appear in his court. Guru Sahib sent his son, Ram Rai. In order to escape the royal wrath, Ram Rai wrongly interpreted it. Consequently, Ram Rai was declared unworthy of Guruship.

5. Nomination of the Successor: Realising that his end was approaching, he nominated his younger son, Har Krishan to Guruship. On 6th October 1661 A.D., Guru Har Rai Ji was immersed in Eternal Light at Kiratpur Sahib.

Question 2.
Write a short note about Thermal.
Answer:
Dhir Mai, the elder brother of Guru Har Rai Ji, had for long been asking for Guruship. One of the twenty-two ‘Manjis’ set up at Baba Bakala, was that of Dhir Mai also. When Dhir Mai received the news that the Sikhs had accepted Tegh Bahadur as their Guru he became furious and restless. He conspired with a Masand named Shihan to kill Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and to plunder his house. One day Shihan along with hundred armed men raided the house of the Guru. In this assault, Guru Sahib’s shoulder was hit with a bullet. Guru Sahib was wounded but He remained serene and calm. Shihan’s accomplices carried away with many belongings of Guru Sahib’s house. This incident provoked the Sikhs who under the leadership of Makhan Shah attacked Dhir Mai’s house. They not only arrested and produced Dhir Mai and Shihan before Guru Sahib but also recovered the stolen goods from them. Guru Sahib forgave Dhir Mai and Shihan when they begged to be pardoned.

Question 3.
Write a brief note on Guru Har Krishan Ji. Why was he called Bal Guru?
Or
Write a short note on Guru Har Krishan Ji.
Or
Explain in detail about Guru Har Krishan Ji.
Answer:
1. Assumption of Guruship: Guru Har Rai Ji had disinherited his elder son, Ram Rai of Guruship, after declaring him ineligible, because he had misinterpreted the Gurbani in Aurangzeb’s court. In,1661 A.D., Guru Har Rai Ji handed over the Guruship to Har Krishan Ji. At that time, Guru Har Krishan Ji was barely five years old. That is why Guru Har Krishan Ji is also known as Bal Guru (child Guru) in Sikh History. He held Guruship. till 1664 A.D.

2. Opposition of Ram Rai: Ram Rai being the elder son of Guru Har Rai Ji, considered himself to be the rightful claimant to Gurgaddi. But Guru Har Rai Ji had already disinherited him of the Guruship. When he came to know that Guruship had been assigned to Har Krishan Ji, he could not tolerate it. He started hatching conspiracies to acquire Guruship.

3. Guru Sahib’s visit to Delhi: Aurangzeb assigned the task of bringing Guru Har Krishan Ji to Delhi to Raja Jai Singh. Raja Jai Singh sent his Diwan, Paras Ram to Guru Har Krishan Ji. Guru Har Krishan Ji declined to go to Delhi to see Aurangzeb. He went to Delhi in 1664 A.D. and agreed to stay at Raja Jai Singh’s residence. There is a difference of opinions among historians on the point of whether any meeting took place between Guru Har Krishan Ji and Aurangzeb or not.

4. Immersed in Eternal Light: In those days cholera and smallpox had broken out in Delhi. Guru Har Krishan Ji served the sick, the poor and the orphans with heart and soul. But, he himself fell a victim to smallpox. He immersed in Eternal Light on 30th March 1664 A.D. at Delhi.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
What do you know about the life and achievements of Guru Har Rai Ji?
Answer:
Guru Har Rai Ji was the seventh Guru of the Sikhs. The period of his pontificate (1645 to 1661 A.D.) is called the period of peace for Sikhism. A brief account of Guru Har Rai Ji’s early career and the development of Sikh Panth under him is as ahead :

1. Birth and Parentage: Guru Har Rai Ji was born on 30 January 1630 A.D. at a place called Kiratpur Sahib. His mother’s name was Bibi Nihal Kaur. He was the grandson of Guru Hargobind Sahib and the son of Baba Gurditta Ji.

2. Childhood and Marriage: Right from his childhood he possessed saintly nature, a sweet tongue and a soft heart. It is said that once Guru Har Rai Sahib was strolling in a garden when some flowers got entangled with his cloak and fell off. He was moved to tears when he saw this. Har Rai Ji was married to Sulakhni, daughter of Daya Ram of Anup city in U.P. He was blessed with two sons, Ram Rai and Har Krishan.

3. Assumption of Guruship: The sixth master, Guru Hargobind Sahib, had five sons: Baba Gurditta, Ani Rai and Baba Atal Rai had passed away during his own lifetime. Of the remaining two, Suraj Mai was involved in worldly matters more than was essential, and Tegh Bahadur was disenchanted with worldly affairs. So at that time, Guru Hargobind Ji deemed it fit to bestow Guruship on Baba Gurditta’s younger son, Har Rai. The ceremony of his assuming Guruship was performed on 8th March 1645 A.D. Thus, Guru Har Rai Ji became the 7th Guru of the Sikhs.

4. Development of Sikhism under Guru Har Rai Ji: The pontificate of Guru Har Rai Sahib lasted from 1645 to 1661 A.D. To carry on his propagation work, he set up three famous centres which were known as ‘bakhshishes’ or the missionary centres. The first “bakhshish’ was that of an ascetic named Bhagat Gir. Pleased with his devotion Guru Har Rai Sahib re-christened him Bhagat Bhagwan. He set up many centres for the propagation of Sikhism in East India. Of these, Patna, Bareilly and Rajgir are the famous ones. The second ‘bakhshish’ was that of Suthra Shah. He was sent to Delhi for the propagation of Sikhism.

The third “bakhshish’ was that of Peru. He was sent to Rajasthan. Likewise, Bhai Gonda Ji was sent to Kabul, Bhai Natha Ji to Dacca and Bhai-Jodha Ji to Multan. Guru Har Rai Sahib himself travelled to different places of Punjab namely Jalandhar, Kartarpur, Palahi, Hakimpur, Mukandpur, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Patiala, Ambala, Karnal, Hissar etc.

5. Phul Blessed: One day a devotee named Kala with his nephew, Phul came to visit Guru Har Rai Sahib. Guru Sahib’s eyes fell on Paul, who was slapping his belly with his hand. On enquiry, Kala told Guru Sahib that he was hungry and wanted something to eat. Guru Sahib took compassion on him and said, “He shall become great, famous and wealthy. His descendants shall drink water as far as the Jamuna. They shall have sovereignty for many generations and be honoured in proportion as they serve the Guru.”
The blessing of Guru Har Rai Ji proved to be true. The generation of Phul laid the foundation of Phulkian Misl.

6. Help to Prince Dara: During the pontificate of Guru Har Rai Sahib, Dara Shikoh was the Governor of Punjab. He was the elder brother of Aurangzeb. In a bid to capture power Aurangzeb poisoned Dara’s food. Consequently, he fell seriously ill. Dara begged Guru Har Rai Sahib to treat him. Guru Har Rai Sahib cured Dara with the rarest of herbs. As a result, Dara felt deeply obliged to Guru Har Rai Sahib. He would often come to pay a visit to Guru Har Rai Sahib.

7. Guru Har Rai Ji Summoned to Delhi : Aurangzeb had suspicion that some hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib were against Islam. In order to, get it confirmed, he asked Guru Har Rai Sahib to appear in his court. Guru Sahib sent his son, Ram Rai. Pointing out a Saloka in the Asa Di Var, Aurangzeb asked him why Muslims had been opposed to it. The Saloka means : “The clay of a Muslim’s grave falls into the hands of a potter ; pots and bricks out of it he makes; in the fire burns the poor clay. As it burns it weeps and wails.” In order to escape the royal wrath, Ram Rai wrongly interpreted it. He explained that Guru Nanak Sahib said nothing against the MusalmAnswer: In fact, he had written the word beiman which had been corrupted by some ignorant persons as Musalman. Guru Har Rai Ji felt indignant, when he heard about it. He considered it a great insult of Guru Granth Sahib. Consequently, Ram Rai was declared unworthy of Guruship.

8. Nomination of the Successor: Realising that his end was approaching, he nominated his younger son, Har Krishan to Guruship. On 6th October 1661 A.D. Guru Har Rai Ji was immersed in Eternal Light at Kiratpur Sahib.

9. Estimate of Guru Har Rai Ji’s Achievements: It is true that Guru Har Rai Ji left this mortal world at the young age of 31, but after the assumption of Guruship he did great deeds for the dissemination of Sikhism. He set up many propagation centres in the Majha, Doaba and Malwa regions. He maintained with gusto the practice of ‘Sangat’ and ‘Pangat’. At his dispensary, free medical aid was provided to one and all irrespective of their caste and creed or status. Through these services, Guru Sahib strengthened the foundations of Sikhism all the more.

Guru Har Krishan Ji:

Question 2.
Give a brief account of the development of Sikhism during the pontificate of Guru Har Krishan Ji.
Answer:
Guru Har Krishan Ji was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs. He is also known as ‘Bal Guru’ in Sikh history. His period of pontificate was from 1661 to 1664 A.D. A brief description of the development of Sikhism during the pontificate of Guru Har Krishan Ji is as under:

1. Birth and Childhood : Guru Har Krishan Ji was born on 7th July, 1656 A.D. at Kiratpur Sahib. He was the younger son of Guru Har Rai Sahib. His mother’s name was Sulakhni. Ram Rai was his elder brother.

2. Assumption of Guruship : Guru Har Rai Sahib had disinherited his elder son, Ram Rai of Guruship, after declaring him ineligible, because he had misinterpreted the Gurbani in Aurangzeb’s court. In 1661 A.D., Guru Har Rai Sahib handed over the Guruship to Har Krishan Ji. At that time, Guru Har Krishan Ji was barely five years old. That is why Guru Har Krishan Ji is also known as Bal Guru (child Guru) in Sikh History. Even at such a young age, he possessed a charismatic personality. He was endowed with unique qualities like sense of service, respect towards elders, humility and compassion. It was owing to these qualities that Guru Har Rai Sahib nominated him as his successor. Thus, he became the 8th Sikh Guru in 1661 A.D. He held Guruship till 1664 A.D.

3. Opposition of Ram Rai : Ram Rai being the elder son of Guru Har Rai Sahib, considered himself to be the rightful claimant to Gurgaddi. But Guru Har Rai Sahib had already disinherited him of the Guruship. When he came to know that Guruship had been assigned to Har Rrishan Sahib, he could not tolerate it. He started hatching conspiracies to acquire Guruship. He won many selfish and dishonest ‘Masands’ over to his side. He had it announced through these ‘Masands’ that the real Guru was Ram Rai and all the Sikhs should accept him as such. However, he could not succeed in his designs. He, then tried to elicit Aurangzeb’s help. Aurangzeb called Guru Har Rrishan Sahib to Delhi so that things might be settled between the two factions through arbitration.

4. Guru Sahib’s visit to Delhi: Aurangzeb assigned the task of bringing Guru Har Rrishan Sahib to Delhi to Raja Jai Singh. Raja Jai Singh sent his Diwan, Paras Ram to Guru Har Rrishan Ji. Guru Har Rrishan Ji declined to go to Delhi to see Aurangzeb. But when Paras Ram requested that the sangat at Delhi were keen on seeing Guru Har Rrishan Sahib, Guru Ji agreed to go to Delhi, but refused to see Aurangzeb. He went to Delhi in 1664 A.D. and agreed to stay at Raja Jai Singh’s residence. There is a difference of opinions among historians on the point whether any meeting took place between Guru Har Rrishan Ji and Aurangzeb or not.

5. Immersed in Eternal Light : In those days cholera and small-pox had broken out in Delhi. Guru Har Rrishan Ji served the sick, the poor and the orphans with heart and soul. He cured many patients of small-pox and cholera. But, he himself fell a victim to mall-pox. This disease proved fatal for him. Seeing his serious condition, the devotees asked him who would lead them. He asked for a coconut. By placing five paise and the coconut he paid obeisance and said ‘Baba Bakala’ and breathed his last. In this way he immersed in Eternal Light on 30th March, 1664 A.D. at Delhi. Guru Har Rrishan Ji held Guruship for about two and a half years and discharged his responsibilities as a Guru very intelligently. Even at such a small age he possessed keen intelligence, sublime thoughts and divine knowledge.

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Write a short note on Guru Har Rai Ji.
Or
Write in short about the life and works of Guru Har Rai Ji.
Answer:
Guru Har Rai Ji was born on 30th January, 1630A.D.at KiratpurSahib.He was of a very Saintly nature since his very childhood. He remained on Gurgaddi from 1645 to 1661 A.D. His pontificate is considered peaceful in Sikh History. In order to preach Sikhism Guru Har Rai Ji travelled in different parts of the Punjab. Besides, he sent his preachers outside Punjab. As a result Sikh religion became very much popular. He appointed his younger son Har Krishan as his successor to the Gurgaddi.

Question 2.
Write a short note about Dhir Mai.
Answer:
Dhir Mai, the elder brother of Guru Har Rai Ji, had for long been longing for Guruship. When Dhir Mai received the news that the Sikhs had accepted Tegh Bahadur Ji as their Guru he became furious and restless. He conspired with a Masand named Shihan to kill Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and to plunder his house. This provoked the Sikhs who attacked Dhir Mai’s house. They not only arrested and produced Dhir Mai and Shihan before Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji forgave Dhir Mai and Shihan when they begged to be pardopded.

Question 3.
Write a brief note on Guru Har Krishan Ji. Why is he called Bal Guru?
Or
Write a short note on Guru Har Krishan Ji.
Or
What was the contribution of Guru Har Krishan Ji in the development of Sikhism?
Answer:
Guru Har Krishan Ji was the eighth Guru of Sikhs. He remained on Gurgaddi from 1661 to 1664 A.D. At the time of his assumption of Guruship he was only five years old. That is why Guru Har Krishan Ji is also known as the Child Guru (Bal Guru) in Sikh Hsistory. At the instigation of Ram Rai, the elder brother of Guru Har Krishan Ji, Aurangzeb called Guru Sahib to Delhi. Guru Har Krishan Ji went to Delhi there he became a victim of small pox. He breathed his last on March 30, 1664 A.D.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was Guru Hargobind Ji’s successor?
Or
Whom did Guru Hargobind Sahib appoint his successor?
Answer:
Guru Har Rai Ji.

Question 2.
Where was Guru Har Rai Ji born?
Answer:
Kiratpur Sahib.

Question 3.
Name the father of Guru Har Rai Ji.
Answer:
Baba Gurditta Ji.

Question 4.
What was the name of the seventh Guru of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Har Rai Ji.

Question 5.
When did Guru Har Rai Ji succeed Guruship?
Answer:
1645 A.D.

Question 6.
Who was Dara Shikoh?
Answer:
The eldest son of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.

Question 7.
Who was sent to Kabul for preaching Sikhism by Guru Hri Rai Ji?
Answer:
Bhai Gonda Ji

Question 8.
Who was sent to.Dhaka for preaching Sikhism by Guru Har Rai Ji?
Answer:
Bhai Natha Ji.

Question 9.
When did Guru Har Rai Ji immerse with the God?
Answer:
1661 A.D.

Question 10.
Who was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Har Krishan Ji.

Question 11.
Where was Guru Har Krishan Ji born?
Answer:
Kiratpur Sahib.

Question 12.
When was Guru Har Krishan Ji born?
Answer:
7th July, 1656 A.D.

Question 13.
When did Guru Har Krishan Ji attain the Gurgaddi?
Answer:
In 1661 A.D.

Question 14.
Who was called Bal Guru?
Or
Who was tjie Child Guru of Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Har Krishan Ji.

Question 15.
What was the period of pontification‘*of Guru Har Krishan Ji?
Answer:
1661 A.D. to 1664 A.D.

Question 16.
After the accession to Gurgaddi Guru Har Krishan Ji was much opposed by whom?
Answer:
Ram Rai.

Question 17.
When did Guru Har Krishan Ji immerse in Eternal Light?
Answer:
In 1664 A.D.

Question 18.
Where did Guru Har Krishan Ji immerse in Eternal Light?
Answer:
Delhi.

Fill in the blanks:

1. ………………. Ji was the seventh Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
Guru Har Rai

2. Guru Har Rai Ji was born in …………..
Answer:
1630 A.D.

3. Sri Guru Har Rai Ji was born at a place named as ……………
Answer:
Kiratpur Sahib

4. The name of. the father of Guru Har Rai Ji was ………………
Answer:
Baba Gurditta Ji

5. Guru Har Rai Ji succeeded to Guruship in …………………
Answer:
1645 A.D.

6. ………………. was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
Guru Har Krishan Ji

7. Guru Har Krishan Ji assumed Guruship in ……………….
Answer:
1661 A.D.

8. ……………….. is remembered by name of Bal Guru.
Answer:
Guru Har Krishan Ji

True Or False:

1. Guru Har Rai Ji was the seventh Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
True

2. Guru Har Rai Ji was born in 1630 A.D.
Answer:
True

3. Baba Buddha Ji was the father of Guru Har Rai Ji.
Answer:
False

4. The name of the mother of Guru Har Rai Ji was Bibi Nihal Kaur.
Answer:
True

5. Guru Har Rai Ji assumed Guruship in 1661 A.D.
Answer:
False

6. Guru Har Krishan Ji was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
True

7. Guru Har Krishan Ji was the Bal Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
True

8. Guru Har Krishan Ji immersed in Eternal Light in 1664 A.D.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the seventh Guru of the Sikhs?
(a) Guru Hargobind Ji
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji
(c) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
Answer:
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji

2. When was Guru Har Rai Ji born?
(0 In 1627 A.D.
(b) In 1628 A.D.
(c) In 1629 A.D.
(d) In 1630 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1630 A.D.

3. What was the name of the father of Guru Har Rai Ji?
(a) Baba Gurditta Ji
(b) Atal Rai Ji
(c) Mani Rai Ji
(d) Suraj Mai Ji.
Answer:
(a) Baba Gurditta Ji

4. When did Guru Har Rai Ji succeed to Guruship?
(a) In 1635 A.D.
(b) In 1637 A.D.
(c) In 1645 A.D.
(d) In 1655 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1645 A.D.

5. Who was Dara Shikoh?
(a) The Eldest son of Shah Jahan
(b) Younger son of Shah Jahan
(c) The Eldest son of Jahangir
(d) Elder son of Aurangzeb.
Answer:
(a) The Eldest son of Shah Jahan

6. Whom did Guru Har Rai Ji appoint his successor?
(a) Har Krishan Ji
(b) Tegh Bahadur Ji
(c) Ram Rai Ji
(d) Baba Gurditta Ji.
Answer:
(a) Har Krishan Ji

7. When did Guru Har Rai Ji immerse in Eternal Light?
(a) In 1645 A.D.
(b) In 1650 A.D.
(c) In 1661 A.D.
(d) In 1664 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1661 A.D.

8. Who was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs?
(a) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(b) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
(c) Guru Har Rai Ji
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
(a) Guru Har Krishan Ji

9. When was Guru Har Krishan Ji born?
(a) In 1630 A.D.
(b) In 1635 A.D.
(c) In 1636 A.D.
(d) In 1656 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1656 A.D.

10. Who was the father of Guru Har Krishan Ji?
(a) Guru Hargobind Ji
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji
(c) Baba Gurditta Ji
(d) Baba Buddha Ji.
Answer:
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji

11. Which Guru is known as Bal Guru of the Sikhs
(a) Guru Ram Das Ji
(b) Guru Har Rai Ji
(c) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji
Answer:
(c) Guru Har Krishan Ji

12. When did Guru Har Krishan Ji succeed to Guruship?
(a) In 1645 A.D.
(b) In 1656 A.D.
(c) In 1661 A.D.
(d) In 1664 A-D.
Answer:
(c) In 1661 A.D.

13. When did Guru Har Krishan Ji immerse in Eternal Light? ;
(a) In 1661 A.D.
(b) In 1662 A.D.
(c) In 1663 A.D.
(d) In 1664 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1664 A.D.

14. Where did Guru Har Krishan Ji immense in Eternal Light?
(a) Lahore
(b) Delhi
(c) Multan
(d) Jalandhar.
Answer:
(b) Delhi

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 7 Guru Hargobind Ji and Transformation of Sikhism

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 7 Guru Hargobind Ji and Transformation of Sikhism Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 7 Guru Hargobind Ji and Transformation of Sikhism

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What contribution was made by Guru Hargobind Ji in the transformation of Sikhism?
Or
Briefly describe the achievements of Guru Hargobind Ji’s pontificate.
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji remained on Gurgaddi from 1606 A.D. to 1645 A.D. The contribution of Guru Hargobind Ji towards the transformation of Sikh Panth was great. He ascended the Gurgaddi with great pomp and show. He acquired the title of ‘Sacha Padshah’ and wore two swords-Miri and Piri. Miri was the symbol of temporal power while Piri stood for spiritual power. Guru Ji resolved to organise an army to face the tyrant Mughals. He ordered his Sikhs to offer him horses and arms. He got a fortress erected-called Lohgarh for the protection of Amritsar. Guru Hargobind Ji got Akal Takht Sahib built in front of Sri Harmandir Sahib to discuss the political and military problems of the Sikhs. Jahangir was alarmed at the growing influence of Sikhism, so he detained Guru Sahib for some time in the fort of Gwalior. During the regime of Shah Jahan, the Mughals fought four battles with Guru Hargobind Ji. The Sikhs won all these battles. Guru Sahib founded a new town named Kiratpur. He’ also did a lot of work in preaching Sikhism.

Question 2.
What were the main causes of the adoption of New Policy (Miri and Piri) by Guru Hargobind Ji?
Answer:
1. Change in the Religious Policy of the Mughals: Before Jahangir, the relations between the Mughals and the Sikhs were very cordial. The Mughal emperor. In 1605 Jahangir ascended the throne of the Mughal Empire. He was a fanatic Sunni Muslim. He could not tolerate the flourishing of any other religion except Islam. In the changed circumstances Guru Hargobind Ji had to adopt a New Policy.

2. Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib: Being a fanatic Sunni Muslim, Jahangir martyred Guru Arjan Sahib in 1606 A.D. The martyrdom of Guru Sahib infuriated the Sikhs and aroused anger in them. Now it became apparent to them that they would have to arm themselves against the Mughals. In this way, the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib was largely responsible for the adoption of New Policy by Guru Hargobind Ji.

3. Last Message of Guru Arjan Sahib: Before his martyrdom, Guru Arjan Sahib sent a message through his Sikhs to his son Hargobind Ji, “Let him sit fully armed on his throne and maintain an army to the best of his ability.” These words of Guru Arjan Sahib kept echoing in the ears of Hargobind Sahib and he adopted the New Policy.

Question 3.
Explain the features of the New Policy adopted by Guru Hargobind Ji.
Or
What do you know about the New Policy or Miri and Piri of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji?
Or
What do you know about the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji? Explain its main features.
Answer:
1. Wearing of Miri and Piri Swords: At the time of assuming Guruship, Guru Hargobind Ji decided to wear the swords of Miri and Piri. The sword of Miri was a symbol of temporal power and the sword of Piri was a symbol of religious leadership. Guru Hargobind Ji enjoined his Sikhs to recite the name of God on one hand, and to wear arms for self-defence on the other. In this way, Guru Hargobind Ji turned the Sikhs into saint soldiers.

2. Organisation of Army: For the protection of the Sikh Panth, Guru Hargobind Ji decided to organise an army. By issuing a Hukamnama, he directed the Sikhs to join Guru Hargobind Ji’s army. Consequently, 500 soldiers joined his army. Guru Hargobind Ji’s army continued to swell gradually and their number rose to 2500. A separate regiment of the Pathans was organised and Painda Khan was made its commander.

3. Collection of Arms and Horses: Guru Hargobind Ji issued a Hukamnama to the Masands that he would be pleased with those Masands, who brought him offerings of arms and horses instead of money. He also told the Sikhs that they should offer arms and horses to the Masands. The Mass and the Sikhs hailed this decision of Guru Ji. This added to the military strength of Guru Hargobind Ji.

5. Adoption of Royal Symbols: While following New Policy, Guru Hargobind Ji adopted many paraphernalia of sovereignty. In place of a woollen rosary he hung two swords from his waist. Like the kings, Guru Hargobind Ji started wearing a royal aigrette (Kalgi) on his headgear. A’Sort of umbrella was also swung over him. He also assumed the title of Sacha Padshah (True Emperor). He also started wearing costlier costumes. Like the Mughals, he also started keeping bodyguards.

Question 4.
What do you know about the Miri and Piri?
Or
What is ‘Miri’ and ‘Piri’? Describe its historical importance?
Or
Briefly describe the importance of the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
At the time of ascending Gurgaddi, Guru Hargobind Ji fully realised the changed circumstances and danger ahead for Sikhism. Consequently, he decided to wear two swords Miri and Piri. The sword of Miri symbolised temporal power and the sword of Piri symbolised spiritual power, one to smite the oppressor and the other to protect the innocent. The wearing of these two swords by Guru Sahib meant that, henceforward, he would guide the Sikhs in both worldly and religious matters. Guru Sahib advised the Sikhs to recite True Name on the one hand and to carry arms on the other hand for their protection. Thus, Guru – Hargobind Ji turned the Sikhs into saint-soldiers.

This policy of Miri and Piri exercised a tremendous impact on Sikh history. Firstly, it infused a new spirit of confidence among the Sikhs. Secondly, the Sikhs had taken up arms now in order to fight against injustice and for the protection of their religion. Thirdly, it sharpened the differences between the Mughals and the Sikhs. Fourthly, Guru Hargobind Ji founded the Sant Khalsa in accordance with the New Policy. Fifthly, a long drawn out struggle started between the Sikhs and the Mughals as a consequence of this policy, in which the Sikhs became victorious.

Question 5.
Write a short note on the imprisonment of Guru Hargobind Ji at Gwalior.
Answer:
A few years after the assumption of Guruship by Guru Hargobind Ji, Jahangir called Guru Sahib to Delhi and imprisoned him in the fort of Gwalior. Why was Guru Sahib took, prisoner? There is a difference of opinion among historians on this point. Some historians are of the view that Chandu Shah’s conspiracy was Responsible for it. After the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Ji, Chandu Shah once again tried to persuade Guru Hargobind Ji to accept the proposal of his daughter’s marriage. When Guru Hargobind Ji replied that he was not prepared to marry the daughter of his father’s assassin, Chandu Shah was enraged beyond measure. He vowed to avenge this insult. He instigated Jahangir aganist Guru Ji. Consequently, Jahangir imprisoned the Guru.

Most of the historians agree with the view that Jahangir imprisoned Guru Sahib for adopting the New Policy. It had aroused suspicions in the mind of Jahangir and the detractors of Guru Arjan Dev Ji poisoned his ears that Guru Ji was preparing, for a rebellion. The historians differ on the point as to how long Guru Hargobind Ji was kept in prison in the fort of Gwalior. Most of the historians agree that Guru Sahib remained imprisoned in the fort of Gwalior for two years i.e. from 1606 to 1608 A.D.

Question 6.
Write a short note on relations between Guru Hargobind Sahib and Mughal emperor Jahangir.
Answer:
In 1605 Jahangir ascended the throne of the Mughal Empire. He was a fanatic Sunni Muslim. In a bid to crush the Sikh Movement, he martyred Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1606 A.D. The martyrdom of Guru Sahib infuriated the Sikhs. Guru Hargobind Ji decided to arm the Sikhs against the Mughals. Guru Ji adopted his famous New Policy. This New Policy infuriated Jahangir. He called Guru Sahib to Delhi and imprisoned him in the fort of Gwalior. The historians differ on the point as to how long Guru Hargobind Ji was kept in prison in the fort of Gwalior. At the instance of Bhai Jetha Ji and Sufi saint Mian Mir, Jahangir ordered Guru Sahib’s release. In Guru Hargobind Ji’s instance, 52 other kings imprisoned in the fort were also released. Because of this Guru Hargobind, Sahib began to be called “Bandi Chhor Baba”. After the release, the relation between Guru Sahib and Jahangir took a friendly turn.

Question 7.
What were the causes of battles between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals?
Answer:
Following were the causes of battles between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals (Shah Jahan):

Shah Jahan was a great orthodox. He got Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s baoli at Lahore filled with debris. This act of Shah Jahan caused a wave of resentment among the Sikhs.
Naqshbandi was a movement launched in Punjab by fanatic Muslims. Its leader Sheikh Masoom instigated Shah Jahan against Guru Hargobind Ji. Being orthodox, he was easily influenced by their words and turned against Guru Hargobind Ji.
The New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji became the major factor in widening the gulf between Guru Sahib and Shah Jahan. This policy largely added to the military power of Guru Sahib. Guru Ji recruited many fugitives of the Mughal army in his army. Moreover, Guru Sahib had assumed some royal symbols and Sikh devotees had started addressing him a Sacha Padshah (true emperor). Shah 1 Jahan couldn’t tolerate it,
The Kaulan’s affair further embittered the relationship between Guru Hargobind Ji and Shah Jahan. Kaulan was the daughter of Qazi Rustam Khan of Lahore. She was greatly impressed by the teachings Of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and read them with fondness. How could the fanatic Sunni Muslims tolerate that his daughter in his own home should read ‘bani’ (hymns) of the Sikhs? So he started poisoning Shah Jahan’s ears against Guru Sahib. It had its desired impact.

Question 8.
Give a brief account of the battle of Amritsar fought between Guru Hargobind Sahib and the Mughals.
Answer:
The first battle between the Sikhs and the Mughals was fought during ‘ Guru Hargobind Ji’s time, at Amritsar in 1634 A.D. A royal hawk was the immediate cause of this battle. It is said that at that time the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan was hunting in a forest near Amritsar along with his soldiers. On the other hand, Guru Hargobind Ji was also hunting in the same forest along with his Sikhs. During this hunt, a hawk which was presented to Shah Jahan by the emperor of Iran flew away. It fell into the hands of the Sikhs and they refused to give it back to the Mughals. Consequently, Shah Jahan sent an army of 7000 soldiers under the command of Mukhlis Khan to teach a lesson to the Sikhs. The Sikh soldiers fought with the Mughal army with great valour and determination. Mukhlis Khan was killed in this battle. Consequently, the Mughal army took to its heels. Thus, the Sikhs became victorious in this first battle. This victory enhanced the morale of the Sikhs.

Question 9.
Write a short note on the battle of Lahiri fought in the times of Guru Hargobind.
Answer:
Soon after the battle of Amritsar, the second battle was fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs at a place called Lahira (near Bathinda). The immediate cause of this battle was two horses named Dilhag and Gulberg. Two Masands named Bakht Mai and Tara Chand were bringing these horses from Kabul to present them to Guru Hargobind Ji. On the way the Mughals dispossessed them of these horses and sent them to the royal stable. Bhai Bidhi Chand, a devotee of Guru Ji could not tolerate it. He went in disguise as a grass cutter and brought out both the horses from the royal stable and sent them to Guru Sahib. When Shah Jahan heard this news, he was very angry; He immediately sent a . large army under the command of Lala Beg and Qamar Beg to crush the power of the Sikhs. A fierce battle was fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs at a place called Lahira. The Mughals had to suffer a heavy loss of life and both their commanders Lala Beg and Qamar Beg were killed. Bhai Jetha Ji too was martyred in.this battle. The Sikhs emerged victorious in this battle.

Question 10.
What do you know about the battle of Kartarpur fought between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals?
Answer:
The third battle between the Mughals and the Sikhs was fought at Kartarpur in 1635 A.D. The cause of this battle was Painda Khan. He was the commander of the Pathaji troop in the army of Guru Hargobind Ji. He had given a proof of his bravery in the battle of Amritsar. But now he had become arrogant. He stole a hawk of Guru Sahib and gave it to his son-in-law. When Guru Sahib enquired about it, he pretended ignorance. Later on when Guru Sahib came to know about his lie, Guru Sahib dismissed him from the job. Painda Khan decided to avenge this insult. He sought refuge with Shah Jahan. He instigated Shah Jahan to take military action against Guru Sahib. As a result Shah Jahan sent an army under Painda Khan and Kale IQian tb take action against Guru Hargobind Ji. A fierce battle was fought between the two armies at Kartarpur. The Sikh soldiers fought very bravely in this battle. Guru Hargobind Ji’s two sons, Bhai Gurditta Ji and Tegh Bahadur Ji showed rare feats of bravery. In this battle Kale Khan, Painda Khan and his son Qutub Khan were killed while fighting with Guru Sahib. The Mughal army too suffered heavy losses and had to face a crushing defeat.

Question 11.
Write briefly Guru Hargobind Ji’s battles with the Mughals. What is their significance in Sikh History?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji fought four battles against the Mughals in Shah Jahan’s time from 1634 to 1635 A.D. The first battle was fought at Amritsar in 1634 A.D. A royal hawk proved to be an immediate cause of this battle. This hawk had fallen into the hands of the Sikhs and they refused to give it back to the Mughals. Shah Jahan sent a vast army under the command of MukhUs Khan to teach the Sikhs a lesson. The Sikhs fought bravely in this battle and became victorious. The – second battle was fought at Lahira in 1634 A.D. The two horses, Dilbag and Gulbag became the root cause of this battle. The Mughals, suffered heavy losses in this battle. The third battle was fought at Kartarpur between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals in 1635 A.D. Gurditta and Tegh Bahadur, the two sons of Guru Hargobind Ji displayed their rare feats of bravery in this battle. In the same year, the last battle between the Mughals and Guru Hargobind Ji was fought at Phagwara. Despite their limited resources, the Sikhs came out victorious in these battles. It spread the fame of Sikhism far and wide and a large number of people embraced it.

Question 12.
Why is Guru Hargobind Sahib known as Bandi Chhor Baba?
Answer:
The Mughal emperor Jahangir had detained Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in the fort of Gwalior; In this fort were confined 52 other kings for political reasons. These kings were very much impressed by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s personality. They did not feel any difficulty in the company of Guru Sahib. But when Jahangir decided to release Guru Sahib, these kings became restless at the very thought of separation. Guru Hargobind Ji had also developed sympathy for these kings. Therefore, Guru Hargobind Ji sent a message to Jahangir that he would not get released from the fort of Gwalior as long as 52 kings confined in the same fort were also not released. Consequently, Jahangir had to order the release of these 52 kings also. In this way, Guru Hargobind Ji came to be known as Bandi Chhor Baba (emancipator of captives.)

Question 13.
Write a short note on Akal Takht Sahib.
Or
Explain briefly the importance of building of Akal Takht Sahib in Sikh History.
Or
What is the importance of the construction of Sri Akal Takht Sahib?
Answer:
The construction of Akal Takht (The eternal throne) Sahib by Guru Hargobind Ji was his stupendous work. Its construction was started by Guru Hargobind Ji in 1606 A.D. in front of Harmandir Sahib. This project was completed in 1609 A.D. It had a 12 feet high platform which resembled the Mughal throne Here Guru Hargobind Ji used to sit in a princely attire and guide the Sikhs in political and military affairs; From here he used to witness wrestling bouts and other martial arts of the Sikhs. At this place he recruited soldiers and received arms and horses from the Masands. The professional bards sang ballads of unrivalled heroism with a view to infusing a new confidence into the Sikhs. At this very place Guru Hargobind Ji also used to settle the disputes of the Sikhs like a king in court. In fact, Akal Takht Sahib served the purpose of supreme court for the Sikhs. Very soon Akal Takht Sahib became a famous hub of the political activities of the Sikhs.

Question 14.
Give a brief account of the relations of Guru Hargobind Ji with the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Answer:
Shah Jahan became the new emperor of the Mughals in 1628 A.D. During his time, relations between the Sikhs and the Mughals became strained. First, Shah Jahan was a very orthodox emperor. He got the Baoli, built by Guru Arjan Dev Ji at Lahore, filled with filth and converted the Langar building into a mosque. Secondly, Naqashbandis started inciting Shah Jahan against the Sikhs with redoubled zeal. Thirdly, Shah Jahan did not like Guru Sahib’s keeping an army and the Sikhs calling him Sacha Padshah. Fourthly, Kaulan, daughter of a Qazi of Lahore became Guru Ji’s disciple. For this, the Qazi instigated Shah Jahan to take stern steps against the Sikhs. During 1634-35, four battles were fought between the Sikhs and the Mughals at Amritsar, Lahira, Kartarpur and Phagwara. In these battles the Sikhs became victorious while the Mughals had to face defeat. As a result the fame of Guru Hargobind Ji spread far and wide.

Question 15.
Write a short note on the relations between Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and the Mughal Emperors.
Answer:
The Mughal Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan were contemporaries of Guru Hargobind Ji. Both of them were religiously intolerant. In order to crush the popularity of Sikh movement Jahangir had martyred Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1606 A.D. The relation between the Mughals and the Sikhs had become strained. After few years he detained Guru Hargobind Ji in the fort of Gwalior. The historians differ on the point as to how long Guru Hargobind Ji was kept in prison in the fort of Gwalior. After some time, Jahangir ordered his release and the relations between both took new turn. In 1628, Shah Jahan became the new Mughal Emperor. He was a great orthodox. As a result, the relations between the Sikhs and the Mughals once again became strained. In 1634-35 four battles—Amritsar, Lahira, Kartarpur and Phagwara were fought between them. In these battles Guru Hargobind Ji emerged victorious. The victories in these battles increased- the self-confidence among the Sikhs.

Essay Type Questions:

New Policy Of Guru Hargobind Ji:

Question 1.
What do you mean by ‘Miri and Piri’? Study the main features of the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Or
What do you know about the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji? Describe its main features and significance towards the transformation of Sikhism.
Or
What do you know about the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji? Explain in brief its main features.
Or
Examine the New Policy of Guru,Hargobind Ji.
Or
Describe the circumstances leading to the adoption of New Policy by Guru Hargobind Ji. What were the main features of this policy?
Or
Explain the main features of Miri and Piri.
Or
What do you understand by Miri and Piri? Explain its main features.
Or
What were the features of New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji?
Or
“Guru Hargobind has been a much understood man.”—(I.B. Banerjee). Explain the statement in the light of his New Policy.
Or
What is meant by Miri and Piri? What was its importance?
Answer:
With the commencement of Guru Hargobind Ji’s Guruship in 1606 A.D. the Sikh Panth ventured into a new era of its history. During his Guruship he transformed the nature of the Sikh sect by turning the Sikhs into saint soldiers. Guru Hargobind Sahib had to adopt New Policy owing to the following reasons:

1. Change in the Religious Policy of the Mughals: Before Jahangir, the relations between the Mughals and the Sikhs were very cordial. During the Saidpur invasion by Babar in 1520 A.D., the Mughal army had taken Guru Nanak Dev Ji as prisoner. When Babar came to know about it, he ordered the immediate release of Guru Nanak Sahib. He said that he would not have attacked Saidpur, if he had known that it was inhabited by such a holy man. In a bid to re-capture power, Humayun had sought the blessings of Guru Angad Sahib. During that time Akbar himself came to Goindwal Sahib and partook Langar. He donated 500 bigha land to Guru Ram Das Ji and waived off the revenue of farmers in Punjab for one year. In 1605 A.D. Jahangir ascended the throne of the Mughal empire. He was a fanatic Sunni Muslim. He could not tolerate the flourishing of any other religion except Islam. In the changed circumstances, Guru Hargobind Sahib had to adopt New Policy.

2. Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji: Being a fanatic Sunni Muslim, Jahangir could not tolerate the increasing popularity of the Sikhs in Punjab. In a bid to crush this movement, he martyred, Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1606 A.D. The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, a saintly personality who wished well for all, infuriated the Sikhs and aroused anger in them. Now, it became apparent to them that they would have to arm themselves against the Mughals for their survival. In this way, the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was largely responsible for the adoption of New Policy by Guru Hargobind Ji.

3. Last Message of Guru Arjan Dev Ji: Before his martyrdom, Guru Arjan Dev Ji sent a message through his Sikhs to his son, Hargobind Ji, “Let him sit fully armed on his throne and maintain an army to the best of his ability.” These words of Guru Arjan Dev Ji kept echoing in the ears of Hargobind Ji and he adopted the New Policy by giving it a practical shape.

Main Features of the New Policy:

1. Wearing of Miri and Piri Swords: At the time of assuming Guruship, Guru Hargobind Dev Ji decided to wear the swords of Miri and Piri. The sword of Miri was a symbol of temporal power and the sword of Piri a symbol of religious leadership. Guru Hargobind ji enjoined on his Sikhs to recite the name of God on one hand, and to wear arms for self-defence on the other. In this way Guru Hargohind Sahib turned the Sikhs into saint soldiers. This policy of Miri and Piri as adopted by Guru Hargobind Ji exercised a deep impact on the Sikh History.

2. Organisation of Army: For the protection of the Sikh Panth, Guru Hargobind Ji decided to organise an army. By issuing a Hukamnama, he directed the Sikhs to join Guru Hargohind Ji’s army. Consequently, 500 soldiers joined his army. Guru Ji classified these soldiers into five Jathas (groups). Each Jatha was put under the charge of a Jathedar. Besides these soldiers, Guru Hargobind Ji also recruited 52 bodyguards. Guru Hargobind Ji’s army continued to swell gradually and their number rose to 2500. A separate regiment of the Pathans was organised and Painda Khan was made its commander.

3. Collection of Arms and Horses: Guru Hargobind Ji issued a Hukamnama to the Masands that he would be pleased with those Masands, who brought him offerings of arms and horses instead of money. He also told the Sikhs that they should offer arms and horses to the Masands. The Masands and the Sikhs hailed this decision of Guru Ji. This added to the military strength of Guru Hargobind Ji.

4. Construction of Akal Takht Sahib: The construction of Akal Takht Sahib proved very helpful in the evolution of the New Policy. In fact, it was a great task of Guru Hargobind Ji. The construction of Akal Takht (Seat of the Almighty) was begun by Guru Hargobind Ji in front of Harmandir in 1606 A.D. This stupendous task was completed in 1609 A.D. Inside it was built a 12 feet high rostrum, which was like a throne. Guru Hargobind Ji used to guide the political and military affairs of the Sikhs by occupying the throne. Here, he would give military training to the Sikhs and watch their wrestling and other military feats. Here, too, he would accept horses and arms from the Masands. In order to, infuse a new spirit among the Sikhs, the professional bards sang ballads of unrivalled heroism. Besides, here Guru Hargobind Ji would settle the mutual disputes of the Sikhs. According to H.S. Bhatia and S.R. Bakshi,
“Sri Akal Takht is one of the most sacred institutions of Sikhism. It has played historic role in the socio-political transformation of the? Sikh community.”

5. Adoption of Royal Symbols: While following New Policy, Guru Hargobind Ji adopted many paraphernalia of sovereignty. In place of a woollen rosary he hung two swords from his waist. Like the kings, Guru Hargobind Ji started wearing a royal aigrette (Kalgi) on his headgear. A sort of umbrella was also swung over him. He also assumed the title of Sacha Padshah (True Emperor). He also started wearing costlier costumes. Like the Mughals, he also started keeping bodyguards.

6. Fortification of Amritsar: Amritsar was not only, the most.sacred place of the Sikhs, but also was a famous centre for their military training. Therefore, Guru Hargobind Ji got constructed a wall around the city of Amritsar for its defence. Besides this, in 1609 A.D. he also got constructed a fort which was named, Lohgarh.

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 7 Guru Hargobind Ji and Transformation of Sikhism Img 1

7. Changes in the daily life of the Guru: With the adoption of the New Policy, the daily life of Guru Hargobind Ji underwent a number of changes. Guru Hargobind Ji raised a special kirtaniyas who went around Harmandir Sahib, reciting inspirational ‘Sabads’ loudly, to the accompaniment of drum-beats and torch-lights. Guru Hargobind Ji had brought about these changes in his life, only with a view to infuse a spirit of fearlessness among the Sikhs.

Critical Estimate of the New Policy:

At first when Guru Hargobind Ji adopted the New Policy, it created doubts in the minds of many Sikhs about the aims and objectives of Guru Hargobind Ji. In fact, Guru Hargobind Ji had been totally misunderstood. Firstly, Guru Hargobind Ji had no political motive. Secondly, he had not abandoned the Sikh code of conduct. He used to give religious guidance to the Sikhs. During his pontificate, he sent many missionaries in the different corners of Punjab to preach Sikhism. If Guru Hargobind Ji made certain changes in his routine, it was only to enthuse the Sikhs. With the passage of time, all doubts among the Sikhs about the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji began to be dispelled.

Bhai Gurdas-Ji appreciated the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji. He was of.the opinion as it is necessary to kill the snake to get the ‘Gem (Mani)’, to kill the deer to get ‘Kasturi’ and to break the shell to get coconut. It is necessary to have a wedge if you want to protect the garden. Similarly it is necessary for Guru Hargobind Ji to adopt the mew policy in order to protect Sikhism founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
In the words of H.S. Bhatia and S.R. Bakshi,
“Though outwardly, it may appear that Guru Hargobind Ji persued a slightly different course for fulfilling the mission of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, yet, basically, it was Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s ideals that he preached.”
Thus we see that Guru Hargobind Sahib continued the policy of the old Gurus and also made new additions to it.

Importance of the New Policy:

The New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji brought a radical transformation in Sikhism. The Sikhs,*became saint soldiers. Consequently, with the passage of time the Sikhs became fearless warriors. It infused the feelings of self-confidence and self-respect among the Sikhs. If Guru Hargobind Ji had not followed the New Policy, the pious brotherhood of the Sikhs would have either not survived or at any rate relapsed into the limited merits of monks and mendicants. It was due to the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji, that a large number of Jats embraced Sikhism. The New Policy widened the gulf between the Sikhs and the Mughals. During the reign of Shah Jahan, the Mughals fought four battles with Guru Hargobind Ji. Besides these, the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji provided the basis of the creation of Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699 A.D. K.S. Duggal aptly says,

“Guru Hargobind Ji’s greatest contribution is that he gave a new turn to the Sikh way of life. He turned saints into soldiers and yet remained a man of God.”3

Guru Hargobind Ji’S Relations with the Mughals:

Question 2.
Describe briefly the relationship of Guru Hargobind Ji with Jahangir and Shah Jahan.
Or
Write a detailed note on relations between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals.

First Period (1606-27):

1. Imprisonment of Guru Hargobind Ji at Gwalior: Immediately after the assumption of Guruship by Guru Hargobind Ji, Jahangir called Guru Hargobind Ji to Delhi and imprisoned him in the fort of Gwalior. There is a difference of opinion among historians on the point of Guru Hargobind Ji being taken as prisoner. Some historians are of the view that Chandu Shah’s conspiracy was responsible for it. Guru Sahib had refused to accept the proposal of his daughter’s marriage. Therefore, he instigated Jahangir against Guru Hargobind Ji. Consequently, Jahangir imprisoned the Guru. Most of the historians agree to the view that Jahangir imprisoned Guru Hargobind Sahib for adopting the New Policy. It had – aroused suspicions in the mind of Jahangir and the detractors-of Guru ArjanDev Ji poisoned his ears that Guru Hargobind Ji was preparing for a rebellion.

2. Period of Imprisonment: The historians differ on the point as to how long Guru Hargobind Ji was kept in prison in the fort of Gwalior. According to the writer of Dabistan-i-Majahib, Guru Hargobind Ji remained in prison for 12 years. Dr. Indu Bhushan Banerjee stated that the term of imprisonment was 5 years. Teja Singh and Ganda Singh put it to be two years. The Sikh chronicles mentioned that the period of imprisonment was 40 days. It is assessed from the historical facts that Guru Hargobind Ji remained imprisoned in the fort of Gwalior for two years i.e. from 1606 to 1608 A.D.

3. Release of Guru Hargobind Ji: The historians have also expressed different views about Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from the fort of Gwalior. Sikh chronicles wrote that after putting Guru Hargobind Ji in prison Jahangir began to feel uneasy. Bhai Jetha Ji, a devotee of Guru Hargobind Ji, cured him completely. At the insistence of Bhai Jetha Ji, Jahangir released Guru Hargobind Ji. Some historians say that Jahangir took this decision on the request of a famous Sufi saint named, Mian Mir. According to some other historiAnswer: Jahangir was greatly impressed by the profound devotion of the Sikhs. As a result, Jahangir ordered his release. Whatever be the reason, when the order of Guru Hargobind Ji’s release was issued, Guru Hargobind Ji refused to get his freedom as long as 52 other kings, who were imprisoned in the Gwalior fort were also not released. Consequently, Jahangir released these 52 kings also. Because of this, Guru Hargobind Ji began to be called “Bandi Chhor Baba” (emancipator of captives).

4. Friendly Relations with Jahangir: Jahangir became convinced that Chandu Shah was at the back of Guru Hargobind Ji’s woes. So Jahangir handed Chandu Shah over to the Sikhs in order to give him punishment for his misdeeds. Jahangir offered to bear the entire expenditure to be incurred in the construction of the Akal Takht, but Guru Ji refused it. Whatever be the case, there is no doubt that after the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, till Jahangir’s death, the relations between the two continued to be cordial.

Second Period (1628-35):

Shah Jahan became’the new Mughal emperor in 1628 A.D. After he ascended the throne, the relations between the Sikhs and the Mughals once again became strained owing to the following reasons:—

1. Shah Jahan’s Fanaticism: Shah Jahan was a great orthodox. He got many famous Hindu temples demolished. He got Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s baoli at Lahore converted into a mosque. This act of Shah Jahan sent a wave of resentment among the Sikhs.

2. Opposition of Naqshbandis: Naqshbamdi was a movement launched in Punjab, by fanatic Muslims. After Shah Jahan had ascended the throne, the Naqshbandis again instigated Shah Jahan against Guru Hargobind Ji. Being an orthodox, he was easily influenced by their words and turned against’Guru Hargobind Ji.

3. New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji: The New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji became the major factor in widening the gulf between Guru Sahib and Shah Jahan. This policy largely added to the military power of Guru Hargobind Ji. Guru Hargobind Ji had assumed some royal symbols and Sikh devotees had started addressing him as Sacha Padshah (true emperor). Shah Jahan looked upon this policy of Guru Hargobind Ji as a danger to the Mughal empire. So, he decided to take action against Guru Hargobind Ji.

4. Kaulan’s Affair: The Kaulan’s affair further embittered the relationship between Guru Hargobind Ji and Shah Jahan. Kaulan was the daughter of Qazi Rustam Khan of Lahore. She was very religious minded. She was greatly impressed by the teachings of Guru Arjan Ji and used to read them with fondness. Qazi Rustam Khan, a fanatic Sunni Muslim could not tolerate it. As a result he imposed many restrictions on his daughter. She left her home and took refuge with Guru Hargobind Ji. When the Qazi came to know about it, he started poisoning Shah Jahan’s ears against Guru Hargobind Ji.

Battles Between The Sikhs And The Mughals:

Gradually the relations between the Mughals and the Sikhs became so strained that in 1634-35 A.D., four battles were fought between them. A brief description of these battles is as follows:

1. Battle of Amritsar 1634 A.D.: The first battle between the Mughals and the Sikhs was fought in 1634 A.D. at Amritsar. At that time Shah Jahan with his soldiers was on a hunting tour near Amritsar. While hunting, a special hawk of Shah Jahan, flew away. The Sikhs caught this hawk. While searching for it some Mughal soldiers happened to come there. When they saw the hawk with the Sikhs, they demanded it back. The refusal by the Sikhs resulted in a clash. Some Mughal soldiers were killed in the clash. Shah Jahan sent a troop of 7,000 soldiers, under the leadership of Mukhlis Khan from Lahore to teach a lesson to Guru Hargobind Ji and his Sikhs. This army made a great deal of plundering after reaching Amritsar. The Sikh soldiers stoutly resisted the Mughal army. Besides Guru Hargobind Ji, Bhai Bidhi Chand, Bhai Jetha Ji and Painda Khan showed feats of bravery. Mukhlis Khan was killed, while he was fighting with Guru Hargobind Ji. As a result, the rest of the Mughal army fled from the battlefield. The victory in this battle greatly boosted the morale of the Sikhs. About this battle Prof. Harbans Singh aptly says,
“This Amritsar action was a small incident, but its implications were far-reaching.”

2. Battle of Lahira”l634 A.D.: Soon after the battle of Amritsar, second battle was fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs at a place called Lahira (near Bathinda). The immediate cause of this battle was two horses named Dilbag and Gulbag. Two Masands named Bakht Mai and Tara Chand were bringing these horses from Kabul to present them to Guru Hargobind Ji. On the way the Mughals dispossessed them of these horses and sent them to the royal stable. Bhai Bidhi Chand, a devotee of Guru Ji went in disguise of a grass cutter and brought out both the horses from the royal stable and sent them to Guru Hargobind Ji. When Shah Jahan heard this news. He immediately sent a large army under the command of Lala Beg and Qamar Beg to crush the power of the Sikhs. A fierce battle was fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs at a place called Lahira. The Mughals had to suffer a heavy loss of life and both their commanders Lala Beg and Qamar Beg were killed. Bhai Jetha, too was martyred in this battle. The Sikhs emerged victorious in this battle.

3. Battle of Kartarpur 1635 A.D.: The third battle between the Mughals and the Sikhs was fought at Kartarpur in 1635 A.D. The cause of’this battle was Painda Khan. He was the commander of the Pathan troop in the army of Guru Hargobind Ji. He stole a hawk of Guru Sahib and gave it to his son-in-law. When Guru Sahib enquired about it, he pretended ignorance. Later on when Guru Hargobind Ji came to know about his lie, Guru Hargobind Ji dismissed him from thejob. He sought refuge with Shah Jahan. On his instigation Shah Jahan sent an army under Painda Khan and Kale Khan to take action against Guru Hargobind Ji. A fierce battle was fought between the two armies at Kartarpur. In this battle Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji showed rare feats of bravery. In this battle Kale Khan, Painda Khan and his son Qutub Khan were killed, while fighting with Guru Hargobind Ji. The Mughal army too suffered heavy losses and had to face a crushing defeat.

4. Battle of Phagwara 1635 A.D.: After the battle of Kartarpur, Guru Hargobind Ji stayed at Phagwara for some time. Here some Mughal soldiers under the command of Ahmed Khan attacked Guru Hargobind Ji. Guru Hargobind Ji was not prepared for this attack, but on the other hand the Mughal army was very small in number. Therefore, there was only a skirmish between the two armies near Phagwara. This battle is not considered so significant. The battle of Phagwara was the last battle fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs during the pontificate of Guru Hargobind Ji.

Importance of the Battles:

In the battles, between the Mughals and the Sikhs mentioned above the Sikhs emerged victorious. These battles were fought at a time, when the resources of the Sikhs were very limited, as compared to those of the Mughals. The victories in these battles increased’ the self-confidence and infused a new spirit among the Sikhs. Owing to these victories the fame of Guru Hargobind Ji spread far and wide. Many people embraced Sikhism. Consequently, the Sikh Panth began to flourish rapidly. Patwant Singh aptly says,
“The historical importance of these battles did not lie in their scale, but in the fact that the aggressor’s writ was rejected and his power scorned. A mood of defiance was generated against the Mughals and an example set for others.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What contribution was made by Guru Hargobind Ji in the transformation of Sikhsim?
Or
Briefly describe the achievements of Guru Hargobind Ji’s pontificate.
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji remained on Gurgaddi from 1606 A.D. to 1645 A.D. He wore two swords of Miri and Piri. Guru Ji resolved to organise an army to face the tyrant Mughals. He got a fortress erected called, Lohgarh for the protection of Amritsar. Guru Hargobind Ji got Akal Takht Sahib built in front of Sri Harmandir Sahib. Jahangir was alarmed at the growing influence of Sikhism. During the regime of Shah Jahan the Mughals fought four battles with Guru Hargobind Ji. The Sikhs won all these battles.

Question 2. What were the main causes of adoption of New Policy (Miri and Piri) by Guru Hargobind Ji?
Or
Describe any three causes of the adoption of New Policy by Guru Hargobind Ji.
Or
Why did Guru Hargobind Sahib adopt the New Policy?
Or
Why did Guru Hargobind Ji adopt the ‘New Policy’? Give any three reasons.
Answer:

Jahangir was a fanatic Sunni Muslim. He could not tolerate the flourishing of any other religion except Islam,
Being a fanatic Sunni Muslim, Jahangir martyred Guru Arjan Ji in 1606 A.D. It infuriated the Sikhs and aroused anger in them. So they decided to arm themselves against the Mughals.
Before his martyrdom, Guru Arjan Ji sent a message to his son, Hargobind Ji, “Let him sit fully armed on his throne and maintain an army to the best of his ability.”

Question 3.
What were the main features of Guru Hargobind Ji’s New Policy?
Or
What do you know about the New Policy of Miri and Piri of Guru Hargobind Ji?
Or
What was the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji? What were its main features?
Or
Write any three features of the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:

Guru Hargobind Ji sat on Gurgaddi with great pomp and show. He wore two swords of Miri and Piri.
Guru Hargobind Ji decided to keep an army for the protection of the Sikh Panth.
Guru Hargobind Ji announced that the Sikhs should offer horses and arms in place of money.
With the objective of making Amritsar secure and protected, he got a fortress, Lohgarh constructed.
He got constructed Akal Takht Sahib near Sri Harmandir Sahib.

Question 4.
What do you know about the Miri and Piri?
Or
What is ‘Miri’ and ‘Piri’? Describe its historical importance?
Or
What do you mean by Miri and Piri?
Or
Briefly describe the importance of the New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
At the time of ascending Gurgaddi Guru Hargobind Ji, he decided to wear two swords of Miri and Piri. The sword of Miri symbolised temporal power and the sword of Piri symbolised the spiritual power. The wearing of these two swords by Guru Hargobind Ji meant that, hence forward, he would guide the Sikhs in both worldly and religious matters. Thus, Guru Hargobind Ji turned the Sikhs into saint-soldiers.

Question 5.
Write a short note on the imprisonment of Guru Hargobind Ji at Gwalior.
Or
Why did Jahangir arrest Guru Hargobind Ji?
Answer:
A few years after the assumption of Guruship by Guru Hargobind Ji, Jahangir called Guru Sahib to Delhi and imprisoned him in the fort of Gwalior. Why was Guru Hargobind Ji taken prisoner? There is a difference of opinion among historians on this point. Some historians are of the view that Chandu Shah’s conspiracy was responsible for it. Most of the historians agree to the view that Jahangir imprisoned Guru Sahib for adopting the New Policy. Guru Sahib remained imprisioned from 1606 to 1608 A.D.

Question 6.
Write a shor£ note on relations between Guru Hargobind Ji and Mughal emperor Jahangir.
Answer:
In 1605 A.D. Jahangir ascended the throne of Mughal Empire. He was a fanatic Sunni Muslim. In a bid to crush the Sikh movement, he martyred Guru Arjan Sahib in 1606 A.D. So Guru Hargobind Ji decided to arm the Sikhs against the Mughals. It infuriated Jahangir. He imprisoned Guru Hargobind Ji in the fort of Gwalior. Later on Jahangir ordered Guru Sahib’s release. After the release, the relation between Guru Hargobind Ji and Jahangir took a friendly turn.

Question 7.
What were the causes of battles between Guru. Hargobind Ji and the Mughals?
Or
Write any three causes of battles between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals.
Answer:

Shah Jahan was a great orthodox. He got Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s baoli at Lahore filled with debris.
Shaikh Masoom, the leader of Naqshbandis, instigated Shah Jahan against Guru Hargobind Ji.
The New Policy of Guru Hargobind Ji became the major factor in widening the gulf between the Sikhs and the Mughals.
Guru Ji was called as Sacha-Padshah by his followers
Shah Jahan could not tolerate Kaulani’s becoming of Guru Hargobind Ji’s disciple.

Question 8.
Give a brief account of the battle of Amritsar fought between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals.
Answer:
The first battle between the Sikhs and the Mughals was fought during Guru Hargobind Ji’s time, at Amritsar in 1634 A.D. A royal hawk was the immediate cause of this battle. Shah Jahan’s hawk flew away. The Sikhs refused to give it back to the Mughals. Consequently, Shah Jahan sent an army of 7000 soldiers under the command of Mukhlis Khan to teach a lesson to the Sikhs. The Sikhs became victorious in this first battle.

Question 9.
What do you know about the battle of Kartarpur fought between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals?
Answer:
The third battle between the Mughals and the Sikhs was fought at Kartarpur in 1635 A.D. The cause of this battle was Painda Khan. He had become arrogant. So Guru Hargobind Ji had dismissed him from the army. Painda Khan decided to avenge this insult. He instigated Shah Jahan to take military action against Guru Hargobind Ji. As a result Shah Jahan sent an army against Guru Hargobind Ji. A fierce battle was fought between the two armies at Kartarpur. The Mughal army had to face a crushing defeat.

Question 10.
Write briefly Guru Hargobind’s battles with the Mughals. What is their significance in Sikh History?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji fought four battles against the Mughals in Shah Jahan’s time from 1634 to 1635 A.D. The first battle was fought at Amritsar in 1634 A.D. The second battle was fought at Lahira in 1634 A.D. The third battle was fought at Kartarpur in 1635 A.D. In the same year, the last battle was fought at Phagwara. Despite their limited resources, the Sikhs came out victorious in these battles.

Question 11.
Why is Guru Hargobind Ji known as Bandi Chhor Baba?
Answer:
The Mughal emperor Jahangir had detained Guru Hargobind Ji in the fort of Gwalior. In this fort were confined 52 other kings. These kings were very much impressed by Guru Hargobind Ji’s personality.. But when Jahangir decided to release Guru Hargobind Ji, sent a message to Jahangir that he would not get released from the fort of Gwalior as long as 52 kings were also not released. Consequently, Jahangir had to order the release of these 52’kings also. In’this way, Guru Hargobind Ji came to be known as Bandi Chhor Baba (emancipator of captives).

Question 12.
Write a note on Akal Takht Sahib.
Or
Explain briefly about the construction and importance of Akal Takht Sahib.
Or
What is the importance of the construction of Sri Akal Takht Sahib?
Answer:
The construction of Akal Takht Sahib (The eternal throne) by Guru Hargobind Ji was his stupendous work. Its construction was started by Guru Hargobind Sahib in 1606 A.D. in front of Harmandir Ji. This project was completed ’ in 1609 A.D. Here Guru Hargobind Ji used to sit in a princely attire and guide the Sikhs in political and military affairs. From here he used to witness wrestling bouts and other martial arts of the Sikhs.

Question 13.
Give a.brief account of the relations of Guru Hargobind Ji with the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
Answer:

Shah Jahan was a very orthodox emperor. He got the Baoli, built by Guru Arjan Dev Ji at Lahore, filled with filth.
Naqshbandis started inciting Shah Jahan against the Sikhs with redoubled zeal,
Shah Jahan did not like Guru Sahib’s keeping an army and the Sikhs calling him Sacha Padshah,
Dining-1634-35 A.D. four battles were fought between the Sikhs and the Mughals at Amritsar, Lahira, Kartarpur and Phagwara. In these battles the Sikhs became victorious while the Mughals had to face defeat.

Question 14.
Write a short note on the relations between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughal emperors.
Answer:
The Mughal emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan were contemporaries of Guru Hargobind Ji. Both of them were religiously intolerant. Wearing of the swords of Miri and Piri and being called as Sacha Padshah by Guru Hargobind Ji was, intolerable for Jahangir. He detained Guru Ji in the fort of Gwalior. After Jahangir, Shah-Jahan became the emperor. Guru Ji had to fight four battles against him, in which Guru Ji was victorious.

Question 15. Why did Guru Hargobind Ji choose the settle down at Kiratpur?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji choose to settle down at Kiratpur Sahib because of the following reasons:

Kiratpur was not directly under the Mughal aifthorities.
It was surrounded by Shivalik Hills. Therefore it was a more secure place.
Guru Ji could live here with peace. Therefore he could devote his time to the spread of Sikhism.
It is a good place for training of the soldiers.

Answer in One Word to One Sentence:

Question 1.
Who was the sixth Guru of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 2.
Give the period of Guruship of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
1606 A.D. to 1645 A.D.

Question 3.
When did Guru Hargobind Ji succeed the Gurgaddi?
Answer:
1606 A.D.

Question 4.
Name the father of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 5.
What was the name of Guru Hargobind Ji’s mother?
Answer:
The name of Guru Hargobind Ji’s mother was Mata Ganga Devi Ji.

Question 6.
Who was Bibi Veero?
Answer:
The daughter of Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 7.
Who was the eldest son of Guru Hargobind Ji?
Answer:
Baba Gurditta Ji.

Question 8.
Whose son was Baba Gurditta Ji?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 9.
Whose son was Baba Atal Rai Ji?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 10.
Give any one reason which led to the adoption of New Policy by Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 11.
Which Guru started the Miri and Piri system?
Or
Which Guru wore two swords?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 12.
What is meant by the Miri and Piri?
Answer:
(a) Miri symbolised worldly power.
(b) Piri stood for spiritual power.

Question 13.
Where wasISri Akal Takht Sahib established?
Answer:
At Amritsar.

Question 14.
By whom was Sri Akal Takht Sahib built?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 15.
When was Sri Akal Takht Sahib constructed?
Answer:
In 1606 A.D.

Question 16.
What is meant by Sri Akal Takht Sahib?
Answer:
The seat of God.

Question 17.
On which historical fact Sri Akal Takht Sahib throws light?
Answer:
Blend of Sikh religion and Sikh politics.

Question 18.
Who was the commander of Pathan batallion of Guru Hargobind Ji?
Answer:
Painda Khan.

Question 19.
By which Mughal emperor was Guru Hargobind Ji kept as a prisoner?
Answer:
Jahangir.

Question 20.
Where did Jahangir imprison Guru Hargobind Ji?
Answer:
In the fort of Gwalior.

Question 21.
Who is known as Bandi Chhor Baba?
Or
Which Guru is addressed as ‘Bandi Chhor’?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 22.
Mention any one reason for straining of relations between the Sikhs and Shah Jahan.
Answer:
Religious fanaticism of Shah Jahan.

Question 23.
Who was Kaolan?
Answer:
She was the daughter of Qazi Rustam Khan.

Question 24.
Which Guru is known as ‘Dal Banjan Gur Surma’?
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 25.
Where was the first battle between Guru Hargobind Ji and Mughals (Shah Jahan) fought?
Answer:
At Amritsar.

Question 26.
When was the battle between the Mughals and Guru Hargobind Ji fought?
Answer:
In 1634 A.D.

Question 27.
Name the two horses responsible for the battle of Lahira.
Answer:
Dilbag and Gulbag.

Question 28.
Whose name was Gulbag?
Answer:
It was the name of a horse presented to Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 29.
Whose name was Dilbag?
Answer:
It was the name of a horse presented to Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 30.
Who was Bidi Chand?
Answer:
A devoted follower of Guru Hargobind Ji.

Question 31.
When was’the battle of Kartarpur fought?
Answer:
1635 A.D.

Question 32.
Which Guru Sahib showed his bravery in the battle of Kartarpur?
Answer:
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Question 33.
Where did Guru Hargobind Ji spend his last ten years?
Answer:
At Kiratpur Sahib.

Question 34.
When did Guru Hargobind Ji immerse with Immortal?
Answer:
1645 A.D.

Question 35.
Where did Guru Hargobind Ji immerse with Immortal?
Answer:
At Kiratpur Sahib.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Guru Hargobind was born in ………………….
Answer:
1595 A D.

2. The name of the father of Guru Hargobind Ji was ………………..
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji

3. In ……………… Guru Hargobind Ji succeeded to Guruship.
Answer:
1606 A.D.

4. The name of the daughter of Sri Guru Hargobind was ……………….
Answer:
Bibi Veero Ji

5. The age of Sri Guru Hargobind Ji at the time of Guruship was ………………. years.
Answer:
11

6. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji wore ………………. swords.
Answer:
Miri and Piri

7. Sri Akal Takhat Sahib was raised by ……………..
Answer:
Guru Hargobind Ji

8. The construction of Sri Akal Takht Sahib was started in ……………
Answer:
1606 A.D.

9. After the death of Jahangir ……………… became the Mughal Emperor.
Answer:
Shah Jahan

10. Guru ……………….. Ji is called Bandi Chhor Baba.
Answer:
Hargobind

11. Battle of Amritsar was fought in ………………….
Answer:
1634 A.D.

12. The immediate cause of battle of Lahira was two horses named ……….. and ……………..
Answer:
Dilbag, Gulbag

13. Guru Hargobind Ji established a new town ……………….
Answer:
Kiratpur Sahib

14. Guru Hargobind Ji immersed in Eternal Light in …………….
Answer:
1645 A.D.

15. Sri Hargobind Ji disappeared in ……………… A.D.
Answer:
1645

True or False:

1. Guru Hargobind Ji was the Seventh Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
False

2. Guru Hargobind Ji was born in 1595 A.D.
Answer:
True

3. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was the father of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
True

4. Baba Gurditta Ji was the eldest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji.
Answer:
True

5. The name of the daughter of Guru Hargobind Ji was Bibi Veero.
Answer:
True

6. Guru Hargobind Ji succeeded to Guruship in 1606 A.D.
Answer:
True

7. Guru Hargobind Ji adopted New Policy.
Answer:
True

8. Guru Hargobind Ji started the New Policy of Miri and Piri.
Answer:
True

9. Guru Aijan Sahib Ji started the construction of Akal Takht Sahib.
Answer:
False

10. The Mughal Emperor Jahangir imprisoned Guru Hargobind Ji at Gwalior.
Answer:
True

11. Guru Hargobind Ji, is addressed as ‘Bandi Chhor’.
Answer:
True

12. Shah Jahan became the new Mughal Emperor in 1628 A.D.
Answer:
True

13. The first battle between the Mughals and the Sikhs was fought in 1634 A.D. at Amritsar.
Answer:
True

14. Guru Hargobind Ji established the new town of ‘Kiratpur Sahib’.
Answer:
True

15. Guru Hargobind Ji immersed in Eternal Light in 1635 A.D.
Answer:
False

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the sixth Guru of the Sikhs?
(a) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(b) Guru Har Krishan Ji
(c) Guru Hargobind Ji
(d) Guru Har Rai Ji.
Answer:
(c) Guru Hargobind Ji

2. When was Guru Hargobind Ji born?
(a) In 1509 A.D.
(b) In 1593 A.D.
(c) In 1595 A.D.
(d) In 1597 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1595 A.D.

3. Who was the father of Guru Hargobind Ji?
(a) Bhai Gurdas Ji
(b) Guru Amar Das Ji
(c) Guru Ram Das Ji
(d) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
Answer:
(d) Guru Arjan Dev Ji

4. What was the name of the mother of Guru Hargobind Ji?
(a) Lakshmi Devi Ji
(b) Ganga Devi Ji
(c) Sulakhni Ji
(d) None of these
Answer:
(b) Ganga Devi Ji

5. Who was BibfVeero?
(a) Wife of Guru Hargobind Ji
(b) Daughter of Guru Hargobind Ji
(c) Daughter of Guru Har Rai Ji
(d) Wife of Bhai Gurditta Ji.
Answer:
(b) Daughter of Guru Hargobind Ji

6. When did Guru Hargobind Ji succeed to Guruship?
(a) In 1506 A.D.
(b) In 1556 A.D.
(c) In 1605 A.D.
(d) In 1606 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1606 A.D.

7. Which Guru started the Miri and Piri system?
(a) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(b) Guru Hargobind Ji
(c) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
(d) Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
(b) Guru Hargobind Ji

8. Which Guru built Akal Takht Sahib?
(a) Guru Amar Das Ji
(b) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(c) Guru Hargobind Ji
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
(c) Guru Hargobind Ji

9. When was the construction of Akal Takhat Sahib completed?
(a) In 1606 A.D.
(b) In 1607 A.D.
(c) In 1609 A.D.
(d) In 1611 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1609 A.D.

10. Who is called Bandi Chhor Baba?
(a) Banda Singh Bahadur
(b) Bhai Mani Singh Ji
(c) Guru Hargbind Ji
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
(c) Guru Hargbind Ji

11. Where was the first battle fought between Guru Hargbind Ji and Mughals?
(a) Phagwara
(b) Amritsar
(c) Kartarpur
(d) Lahore.
Answer:
(b) Amritsar

12. When was the first battle between Hargobind Ji and Mughals fought?
(a) In 1606 A.D.
(b) In 1624 A.D.
(c) In 1630 A.D.
(d) In 1634 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1634 A.D.

13. In which battle Guru Tegh Bahadur showed feats of bravery?
(a) Amritsar
(b) Lahira
(c) Kartarpur
(d) Phagwara.
Answer:
(c) Kartarpur

14. Which town was founded by Guru Hargobind Ji?
(a) Kartarpur
(b) Kiratpur Sahib
(c) Amritsar
(d) Tarn Taran.
Answer:
(b) Kiratpur Sahib

15. Whom did Guru Hargobind Ji appoint his successor?
(a) Har Rai Ji
(b) Har Kishan Ji
(c) Tegh Bahadur Ji
(d) Gobind Rai Ji
Answer:
(a) Har Rai Ji

16. When did Guru Hargobind Ji immerse in Eternal Light?
(a) In 1628 A.D.
(b) In 1635 A.D.
(c) In 1638 A.D.
(d) In 1645 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1645 A.D.

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 6 Guru Arjan Dev Ji and His Martyrdom

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 6 Guru Arjan Dev Ji and His Martyrdom Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 6 Guru Arjan Dev Ji and His Martyrdom

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What were the difficulties faced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji when he became the Guru?
Or
What were the difficulties faced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji after his accession to Gurgaddi?
Answer:
After ascending Gurgaddi, Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face a number of difficulties. A brief description of these is given as under:

1. Opposition of Prithi Chand: Prithi Chand was the elder brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Therefore, he presumed himself as the true successor of Gurgaddi. But, when Guru Arjan Dev Ji was nominated as the successor by Guru Ram Das Ji he refused to submit and adopted an attitude of open defiance. Prithi Chand planned a conspiracy against Guru Arjan Dev Ji and complained to Akbar through a Mughal employee Sulahi Khan. But Akbar paid no heed to his complaints. Thus, till his death, Prithia remained an arch-enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

2. Opposition of Orthodox Muslims: Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face stiff opposition from orthodox Muslims. Muslims could never tolerate the increasing influence of Sikhs. Orthodox Muslims had established the Naqshbandi order at Sirhind. Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi was the leader of this organization. In 1605 A.D., when Jahangir became the new Mughal ruler, these Naqshbandis poisoned his, ears against the Sikhs. As Jahangir was an orthodox emperor, so it had the desired impact on him.

3. Opposition of Brahmans: The Brahmans or the priestly class of Punjab were also against Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The main reason behind this was that the propagation of the Sikh religion resulted in the decreasing influence of BrahmAnswer: Sikhs had started performing their customs and traditions even without BrahmAnswer: When Guru Arjan Dev Ji edited Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Brahmans could not tolerate it. They complained to Akbar against Guru Granth Sahib but Akbar observed that it was a scripture worthy of reverence.

4. Opposition of Chandu Shah: Chandu Shah was the Diwan of Lahore. He was looking for a suitable match for his daughter. In connection with this, he sent his messengers in different parts. When they returned they proposed the name of Hargobind, son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, for his daughter. On hearing this Chandu Shah was enraged and remarked some objectionable words in the honor of Guru Ji. But, after being persuaded by his wife he agreed to the proposal. By this time the Sikhs had come to know about the remarks given by Chandu Shah against Guru Ji. So, they asked an arch-enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji to turn down this proposal. On hearing this Chandu Shah got very angry and became an arch-enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 2.
What was Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution to the development of Sikhism?
Or
Throw a brief light on four important achievements of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Describe the contribution of Guru Arjan Dev Ji to the development of Sikhism.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution to the development of Sikhism is multifaceted. His important achievements are as follows:

1. Construction of Harmandir Sahib: The foremost achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the consolidation of Sikhism was the construction of Harmandir Sahib. Its foundation was laid on 13th January 1588 A.D. by a very famous Sufi Saint, named Mian Mir Ji. In 1601 A.D. the construction of Harmandir Sahib was completed. The construction of Harmandir Sahib proved a milestone in the history of Sikhism.

2. Foundation of Tarn Taran: Guru Arjan Dev Ji, in order to propagate Sikhism in the Majha tract of Punjab, founded the city of Tarn Taran in 1590 A.D. This city is 24 km to the South of Amritsar. Here a tank named Tarn Taran was also dug. Tarn Taran means that any pilgrim who takes bath in this tank shall get salvation from transmigration.

3. Foundation of Kartarpur and Hargobindpur: In 1593 A.D., Guru Arjan Dev Ji laid the foundation of another town called Kartarpur in Jalandhar Doab. Kartarpur means, ‘The City of God’. On the occasion of the birth of his son in 1595 A.D. Hargobind, Guru Arjan Dev Sahib founded another town on the bank of the river Beas and this town was named Hargobindpur after the name of his son.

4. Development of Masand System: The development of the Masand system was one of the greatest achievements of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The word Masand has been derived from the word ‘Masnad’ which means high place. As a consequence, the Guru needed money for Langar and other development programs. It was enjoined upon every Sikh to give Daswandh (l/10th) of his total income to Guru Sahib. For collecting this money from Sikhs, he appointed very responsible persons called Masands. This Masand’s not only collected money but also propagated Sikhism with vigorous zeal.

5. Compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji: The crowning achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the development of Sikhism is the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji dictated the hymns to Bhai Gurdas Ji. This work was completed in 1604 A.D. In Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Guru Arjan Dev Ji included the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji, and his own hymns, which were maximum (2216) in number. Besides this, he had added the hymns of many Bhagats, Sufi Saints, and Baths. Later on, the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji were also included in it. The compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji is a great landmark in the history of the Sikh religion.

Question 3.
Write a brief note on Harmandir Sahib.
Or
Describe briefly the importance of the foundation of Sri Harmandir Sahib by Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Give a brief account of the foundation and importance of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Or
Briefly describe the importance of the foundation of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
The foremost achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the consolidation of Sikhism was the construction of Harmandir Sahib. Guru Ram Das Ji had started the digging of Amrit Sarovar and it was completed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. After this, he started the construction work of Harmandir Sahib (Temple of God) in Amrit Sarovar. Its foundation was laid on 13th January 1588 A.D. by a very famous Sufi Saint, named Mian Mir Ji. The Sikhs suggested to Guru Arjan Dev Ji that the temple should be higher than the surrounding buildings. But Guru Arjan Sahib said, “He who is humble shall be exalted.” That is why the building of the temple was kept lower as compared to the other buildings.

Another distinguishing feature of Harmandir Sahib was that it has four doorways, one on each side. It symbolizes that the people from all the four directions of the world may come to this temple of God without any discrimination on the basis of caste, color, or creed. On completion of this temple in 1601 A.D., Guru Sahib announced that the pilgrimage to this place would have the value of all the 68 Hindu places of pilgrimage and if any pilgrim takes bath here with full devotion shall attain salvation. It impressed a large number of people. They started coming here in large numbers and it helped in the propagation of Sikhism. In a very short period, Harmandir Sahib became the most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs.

Question 4.
What do you know about Masand System?
Or
Examine the organization and development of the Masand System.
Or
Who started Masand System? What were its aims?
Or
Give a brief description of the Masand System.
Or
Write a short note on Masand System.
Answer:
Of the institutions which appreciably contributed towards the development of Sikhism, the Masand system was one of them. A brief description of its various aspects is given below:

1. Meaning of Masand System: The word Masand has been derived from the Persian word ‘Masnad’. Masand means high place. As the representatives of Guru Sahib used to sit on a higher place than others they were called Masands.

2. Introduction: When did the Masand system start is a controversial question among historians were: Some historians are of the view that the Masand system started during the pontificate of Guru Ram Das Ji. Hence the Masands were called Ramdasiyas in the beginning. Some other historians are of the view that the Masand system was started by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The majority of the historians are of the view that though the Masand system was started by Guru Ram Das Ji, its real development took place during the pontificate of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

3. Necessity of Masand System: The need for the Masand system arose because Guru Ram Das Ji needed money for the development of Ramdaspura or Amritsar and for the digging of the tanks of Amritsar and Santokhsar. Secondly, with the passage of time, the number of Sikhs had increased considerably. As a consequence, the Guru needed money for langar and other development programs. Thirdly, the Masand system was introduced for the propagation of Sikhism.

4. Development of Masand System: Though Guru Ram Das Ji started the Masand system yet its actual development took place during the pontificate of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji reorganized the Masand system and gave it some new rules and regulations,

Guru Sahib enjoined upon the Sikhs to give away one-tenth (Daswandh) of their income in the name of Guru Sahib. It was not a compulsion but depended on their own will.
To collect the Daswandh, Guru Sahib appointed the Masands. They deposited this money every year on the occasion of Baisakhi and Diwali with the Guru Sahib at Amritsar.

5. Importance of Masand System: The Masand system initially made a commendable contribution towards the development of Sikhism. It was due to this that the Sikh religion spread far and wide. Many people embraced Sikhism. Secondly, it fixed the income of the Guru’s house. This income was used to establish new towns by Guru Sahib and other development works for Sikhism. It further increased the popularity of Guru Sahib and Sikhism. Thirdly, the institution of langar could run smoothly with this income.

Question 5.
Write a note on the compilation and importance of Adi Granth Sahib (Guru Granth Sahib).
Or
Discuss in brief the importance of Adi Granth Sahib.
Or
Write a note on Adi Granth Sahib.
Or
Give a brief description of Adi Granth Sahib and its historical importance.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji used various sources for writing the Bani. The Bani of the first three Gurus—Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji, and Guru Amar Das Ji were with the eldest son of Guru Amar Das Ji i.e. Baba Mohan Ji. To compile the Bani, Guru Arjan Dev Ji first sent Bhai Gurdas Ji and then Baba Buddha Ji to Baba Mohan Ji but they were not successful in their objective. After this, Guru Sahib himself went from Amritsar to Goindwal Sahib barefooted. Impressed by the humility of Guru Ji, ‘Baba Mohan Ji gave away the entire Bani to Guru Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji already had the Bani of Guru Ram Das Ji with him. Guru Sahib included his own Bani in it. After this Guru Sahib called upon the devotees of Hindu Bhagats and Suffi Saints and asked them to recite the hymns of their saints correctly.

The hymns of only those Bhagats and Suffi Saints were included in the Guru Granth Sahib which was similar to the Bani of the Gurus. The works of Kahna, Chhajju, Shah Hussain, and Pilu were rejected. The compilation of the Adi Granth Sahib Ji in 1604 A.D. is a great landmark in the history of the Sikhs. It provided the Sikh with a unique religious scripture. No doubt Guru Granth Sahib is a religious scripture, yet it furnishes valuable information regarding the social, religious, political, and economic life of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Question 6.
Write a note on Prithi Chand.
Or
Who was Prithi Chand? Why did he oppose Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Or
Who was Prithi Chand (Prithia)? How did he act against Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
Prithi Chand or Prithia was the eldest son of Guru Ram Das Ji and elder brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He was very selfish and cunning. That is why Guru Ram Das Ji gave the Gurgaddi to Guru Arjan Dev Ji instead of giving it to him. On hearing this decision, Prithi Chand got furious. He had been dreaming of getting the Gurgaddi for a long. As such, he started opposing Guru Arjan Dev Ji when the latter got Gurgaddi. He started grabbing the offerings meant for Langar. He hoped that his son Meharban would get Gurgaddi after Guru Arjan Dev Ji. But when Guru Arjan Dev Ji was blessed with a son, Hargobind, all his hopes seemed to dash to the ground. Therefore, he became a sworn enemy of Guru Ji. He connived with the Mughal officials and started hatching conspiracies against Guru Arjan Dev Ji. These conspiracies became a major cause of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom.

Question 7.
Who was Chandu Shah? Why did he oppose Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Or
Write a short note on Chandu Shah.
Answer:
Chandu Shah was the Diwan of Lahore. He was looking for a suitable match for his daughter. In connection with this, he sent his messengers in different parts. When they returned, they proposed the name of Hargobind, son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, for his daughter. On hearing this Chandhu Shah was enraged and remarked some objectionable words in the honor of Guru Sahib. But after being persuaded by his wife he agreed to the proposal. Again he sent his messengers to Guru Arjan Dev Ji with the proposal of his daughter’s marriage with Hargobind. By this time the Sikhs had come to know about the remarks of Chandhu Shah against the Guru. So they asked Guru Arjan Dev to turn down this proposal. Consequently, Guru Ji did the same.

On hearing this Chandhu Shah got very angry and became Guru Ji’s sworn enemy. Then he planned a conspiracy against Guru Arjan Dev Ji. First, he incited Mughal Emperor Akbar and later on Jahangir. Jahangir decided to take stern action against Guru Ji.

Question 8.
Mention five main causes for the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Examine five major causes of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
1. Fanaticism of Jahangir: Jahangir’s fanaticism was the main reason for Guru Arjan Ji’s martyrdom. He could not bear to see any other religion more prosperous than Islam. He could not tolerate the growing popularity of Sikhs in Punjab. So, he was looking for a chance to hamper their development. He wanted to put a stop to all this. He has written about it in his autobiography Tuzak-i- Jahangiri.

2. Development of Sikh Panth: In Guru Arjan Ji’s time, Sikhism progressed considerably. It got a new impetus with the construction of Harmandir Sahib and establishment of the cities like Tarn Taran, Kartarpur and Hargobindpur. Masand system played a significant role in the development of Sikhism. The compilation of Guru Granth Sahib helped in propagating Sikh religion. This was something intolerable and unbearable for the Mughals. They, therefore, thought of crushing the growing power of the Sikhs.

3. Enmity of Prithi Chand: Prithi Chand alias Prithia was the eldest brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He was a very greedy and selfish person. For this reason, only Guru Ram Das Ji appointed Guru Arjan Sahib as his successor in 1581 A.D. Prithia could not tolerate that the Gurgaddi had passed on to somebody else. He then made a firm decision that he would not sit at ease until he had dethroned Guru Arjan Dev Ji and received Gurgaddi for himself. So, he started opposing GuruArjan Dev Ji openly.

4. Enmity of Chandu Shah: Chandu Shah was the Diwan of Lahore. He was looking for a suitable match for his daughter. Many advisors suggested he marry his daughter with Hargobind, the son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. On hearing it Chandu Shah was enraged and he uttered some objectionable words in the honor of Guru Sahib. Afterward, when Chandu Shah’s wife convinced him, he was ready to accept this relation. Guru Arjan Dev Ji refused to accept this relation. When Chandu Shah came to know about this, he was determined to avenge the insult. He started poisoning Jahangir’s ears. Jahangir made up his mind to take strict action against Guru Arjan Sahib.

5. Help of Khusrau: Help of Khusrau by Guru Arjan Dev Ji became the immediate cause of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom. Prince Khusrau had come to Tarn Taran to seek Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s blessings. It is said that Guru Arjan Dev Ji put a tilak on his forehead. When Jahangir came to know about all this he got a golden opportunity to take stern action against Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He ordered Lahore Governor, Murtaza Khan to execute him by giving severe physical tortures and to confiscate the whole of his property.

Question 9.
Describe the role of Naqshbandis in the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib.
Answer:
Naqshabandis played an important role in the martyrdom of Guru Sahib. Naqshbandi was an order started by fanatic Muslims. Its headquarters was at Sirhind. Naqshbandis were enraged to see the increasing influence and powers of the Sikhs in Punjab. The main reason was that the Muslims were intolerant to any other religion prospering and developing. Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi, the leader of Naqshbandis had great influence in Mughal Darbar. So he also instigated Jahangir against Guru Sahib. Therefore, Jahangir decided to take action against Guru Sahib.

Question 10.
What was the immediate cause of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib?
Answer:
Help of Khusrau by Guru Arjan Sahib became the immediate cause of Guru Sahib’s martyrdom. Prince Khusrau was the eldest son of Jahangir. He revolted against his father some time after his enthronement. When the Mughal forces tried to arrest him he ran to Punjab. On reaching Punjab Khusrau came to Tarn Taran to seek Guru Sahib’s blessings. Being the grandson of Akbar with whom Guru Sahib had very good relations, it was but natural that he won Guru Sahib’s sympathy. Moreover anybody was free to come to the home of Guru and receive his blessings. It is said that Guru Sahib put a tilak on his forehead and gave him all sorts of help required by him to go to Kabul.

When Jahangir came to know about all this he got a golden opportunity to take stern action against Guru Arjan Sahib. He ordered Lahore Governor, Murtaza Khan to execute him by giving severe physical tortures, and to confiscate the whole of his property.

Question 11.
Write the importance of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom.
Or
Briefly describe the importance of martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was an event of tremendous importance in the evolution of the Sikh movement and in the history of Punjab.
1. New Policy of Guru Hargobind Sahib: The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji proved a turning point in the development of the Sikh community. Guru Hargobind Ji decided to adopt a New Policy in order to turn his followers into saint soldiers.

3. Change in relationship between Mughals and the Sikhs: Before the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, there were cordial relations between the Sikh Gurus and the Mughal emperors. But, now with the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the position’had been completely reversed. The Sikhs became the sworn enemy of the Mughals. They were now looking for.an opportunity to avenge the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

4. Popularity of Sikhism: With the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Sikhism became more popular. This incident infused a new vigour’, love and reverence for Sikhism, not only among the Hindus, but also among the Muslims. Consequently, they began to join Sikhism in larger numbers. Thus, the martyrdom of Guru .Arjan Dev Ji proved a milestone in the development of Sikhism.

Essay Type Questions:

Early Career And Difficulties Of Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

Question 1.
Describe briefly the early life of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. What difficulties he have to face at the time of his accession to Guruship?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji was the fifth Guru of the Sikhs. His period of pontification was from 1581 to 1606 A.D. The pontification of Guru Arjan Dev Ji saw the unprecedented development on the one band and on the other hand his martyrdom started a new era in the Sikh history. A brief description of early career and difficulties faced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji is as under:

Early Career of Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

1. Birth and Parentage: Guru Arjan Dev Ji was born on April 15,1563 A.D. at Goindwal Sahib. He was the youngest son of Guru Ram Das Ji. He belonged to a Kashatriya family of Sodhi caste. His mother’s name was Bibi Bhani.

2. Childhood and Marriage: Right from his childhood, Guru Arjan Dev Ji was very dear to his parents. His maternal grandfather Guru Amar Das Ji had special attachment with this grandson. He made a forecast that the child would become a great man, “Ih Mera Dohta, Bani Ka Bohita Hovega”. (This grandson of mine will produce the boat of Bani to ferry others across). His prediction proved true. Right from the beginning Guru Arjan Dev Ji was very promising, a symbol of modesty and a very religious-minded person. He learnt Hindi and Persian languages. He received knowledge about Gurbani from his parents and grandfather. He was married to Ganga Devi, daughter of Krishan Chand of village Mou of Phillaur. In 1595 A.D. he was blessed with a son named Hargobind.

3. Assumption of Guruship: Guru Ram Das Ji had three sons. Prithi Chand the eldest son was utterly selfish and subtle. His second son Mahadev was an ascetic, who showed no interest in the worldly affairs. Arjan Dev Ji was his third and the youngest son. Devotion to God, modesty and selfless service were his three main characteristics. So Guru Ram Das Ji appointed Guru Arjan Dev Ji as his successor in 1581 A.D. Thus Guru Arjan Dev Ji became the fifth Guru of the Sikhs.

Difficulties of Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

After ascending Gurgaddi, Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face a number of difficulties. A brief description of these is given as under:

1. Opposition of Prithi Chand: Prithi Chand was the elder brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Therefore, he presumed himself as the true successor of Gurgaddi. But, when Guru Arjan Dev Ji was nominated as the successor by Guru Ram Das Ji he refused to submit and adopted an attitude of open defiance. He spoke bad words to his father. When Guru Rain Das Ji immersed with Immortal, Prithia spread the rumour that Arjan Dev Ji poisoned Guru Ram Das Ji so that, he might succeed to Gurgaddi. He asked Guru Arjan Dev Ji for his share in the property. Guru Arjan Dev Ji gave him all his property, but still he was not appeased. Now, he forcibly started collecting funds brought for Langar by the Sikh Sangat and used them for his personal affairs.

When in 1595 A.D. Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s wife was blessed with a son, named Hargobind, he hatched a number of conspiracies to put an end to the life of infant Hargobind. Prithi Chand planned a conspiracy against Guru Arjan Dev Ji and complained to Akbar through a Mughal employee Sulahi Khan. But Akbar paid no heed to his complaints. Thus, till his death, Prithia remained an arch enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

2. Opposition of Orthodox Muslims: Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face stiff opposition from orthodox Muslims. Muslims could never tolerate the increasing influence of Sikhs. Orthodox Muslims in order to save their religion established Naqshbandi order at Sirhind. Shaikh Ahmad Sibhindi was the leader of this organisation. In 1605 A.D., when Jahangir became the new Mughal ruler, these Naqshbandis poisoned his ears against the Sikhs. As Jahangir was an orthodox emperor, so it had the desired impact on him.

3. Opposition of Brahmans: The Brahmans of Punjab w;ere also against Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The main reason behind this was that the propagation of Sikh religion resulted in the decreasing influence of BrahmAnswer: Sikhs had started performing their customs and traditions even without BrahmAnswer: When Guru Arjan Dev Ji edited Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Brahmans could not tolerate it. They complained to Akbar against Guru Granth Sahib but Akbar observed that it was a scripture worthy of reverence.

4. Opposition of Chandu Shah: Chandu Shah was the Diwan of Lahore. He was looking for a suitable match for his daughter. In connection with this he sent his messengers in different parts. When they returned they proposed the name of Hargobind,;son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, for his daughter. On hearing this Chandu Shah was enraged and remarked some objectionable words in the honour of Guru Ji. But, after being persuaded by his wife he agreed to the proposal. By this time the Sikhs had come to know about the remarks given by Chandu Shah against the Guru Ji. So, they asked Guru Arjan Dev Ji to turn down this proposal. Consequently, Guru Arjan Dev Ji did the same.

Now Chandu Shah personally came to Guru Arjan Dev Ji and offered Rs. 1 lakh and promised to give more dowry. But Guru Arjan Dev Ji refused saying, “My words are engraved on stone, and cannot be effaced. If you give me the whole world as a dowry with your daughter, my son will not marry her.” On hearing this Chandu Shah got very angry and became Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sworn enemy.

Development Of Sikhism Under Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

Question 2.
What was Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution in the evolution of Sikhism?
Or
Describe the various organizational works done by Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the development of Sikhism.
Or
Give an account of the various achievements of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Describe Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution to the organization and development of Sikhism.
Or
Discuss the contribution of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the development of Sikhism.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji remained on Gurgaddi from 1581 to 1606 A.D/ With his accession to Guruship, Sikhism entered into a new phase. Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution to the development of Sikhism is multifaceted. His important achievements are as follows:

1. Construction of Harmandir Sahib: The foremost achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the consolidation of Sikhism was the construction of Harmandir Sahib. Guru Ram Das Ji had started the digging of Amrit Sarovar and it was completed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. After this, he started the construction work of Harmandir Sahib (Temple of God) in Amrit Sarovar. Its foundation was laid in 1588 AD. by a very famous Sufi Saint, named Mian Mir Ji. The Sikhs suggested to Guru Arjan Dev Ji that the temple should be higher than the surrounding buildings. But Guru Arjan Sahib said, “He who is humble shall be exalted.” That is why the building of the temple was kept lower as compared to the other buildings.

Another distinguishing feature of Harmandir Sahib was that it has four doorways, one on each side. It symbolises that the people from all the four directions of the world may come to this temple of God without any discrimination on the basis of caste, colour or creed. On completion of this temple in 1601 A.D. Guru Sahib announced that the pilgrimage to this place would have the value of all the 68

PSEB 12th Class History Solutions Chapter 6 Guru Arjan Dev Ji and His Martyrdom Img 1

Hindu places of pilgrimage and if any pilgrim takes bath here with full devotion shall attain salvation. It impressed a large number of people. They started coming here in large numbers and it helped in the propagation of Sikhism. In a very short period, Harmandir Sahib became the most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs. According to G.S. Talib,

“This temple and the pool became to Sikhism what Mecca is to Islam, Jerusalem to Judaism and Christianity and Bodh Gaya to Buddhism.”

2. Foundation of Tarn Taran: Guru Arjan Dev Ji, in order to propagate Sikhism in Majha tract of the Punjab founded the city of Tarn Taran in 1590 A.D. This city is 24 kms to the South of Amritsar. Here a tank named as Tarn Taran was also dug. Tarn Taran means that any pilgrim who takes bath in this tank shall get salvation from transmigration. Tarn Taran also became a famous holy place of the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Jats of the Majha became the followers of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and embraced Sikhism. The services of these Jats towards Sikhism was of great value.

3. Foundation of Kartarpur and Hargobindpur: In 1593-94 A.D., Guru Arjan Dev Ji laid the foundation of another town called Kartarpur in Jalandhar Doab. Kartarpur means, ‘The City of God’. It is situated between the Beas and the Sutlej rivers. Here Guru Sahib built a tank named ‘Gangsar’. Thus, Kartarpur also became the centre of propagation of Sikhism. On the occasion of the birth of his son in 1595 A.D. Hargobind, Guru Arjan Dev Sahib founded another town on the bank of the river Beas and this town was named as Hargobindpur after the name of his son.

4. Construction of a Baoli at Lahore: Once on the request of Sikh Sangat, Guru Sahib went to Lahore. There he got constructed a Baoli in Dabbi Bazaar. This Baoli became a holy place for the Sikhs of that area.

5. Development of Masand System: Development of Masand system was one of the greatest achievements of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The word Masand has been derived from the word ‘Masnad’ which means high place. As the representatives of Guru Sahib used to sit on a higher place than others, so they were called as Masands. With the passage of time, the number of Sikhs had increased considerably. As a consequence, the Guru needed money for Langar and other development programmes. It was enjoined upon every Sikh to give Daswandh (l/10th) of his total income to Guru Sahib. For collecting this money from Sikhs, he appointed very responsible persons called Masands.

These Masands not only collected money, but also propagated Sikhism with a vigorous zeal. The money collected by Masands was deposited in the Guru’s treasury at Amritsar on the occasions of Diwali and Baisakhi. The Masand system played a vital role in spreading the message of Sikhism to far-off places. Secondly, it gave a definite income to Guru Arjan Sahib.

This work was completed in 1604 A.D. In Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Guru Arjan Dev Ji included the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji and his own hymns, which were maximum (2216) in number. Besides this, he had added the hymns of many Bhagats, Sufi Saints and Bhats. Later on, the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji were also included in it.

The compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji is a great landmark in the history of Sikh religion. It gave the Sikhs a holy book of their own. It is called the Bible of the Sikhs. By including the hymns of the people belonging to different religions and castes in it, Guru Arjan Dev Ji has set up an example. Adi Granth Sahib Ji throws ample light on the political, religious, social and economic life of 15th to 17th centuries. Before Guru Gobind Singh Ji immersed in Eternal Light he gave Adi Granth Sahib Ji the status of Guru Granth Sahib Ji. According to Dr. Hari Ram Gupta, “The compilation of the Granth formed an important landmark in the history of the Sikhs.”

7. Trade of Horses. In order to make the Sikhs rich and prosperous, Guru Arjan Sahib encouraged,the Sikhs to take the trade of horses beyond the Indus with Arab countries. This step of Guru Arjan Sahib not only increased the income of the Sikhs but they became good horse riders also. Moreover, it dealt an effective blow at the stringency of caste and Hindu superstitions. It went a long way in breaking down the barrier that prevented the Hindus from crossing the Indus.

8. Friendly Relations with Akbar: Mughal emperor Akbar had set up friendly relations with Guru Arjan Sahib. During the pontificate of Guru Arjan Dev Ji his opponents Prithia, Ghandhu Shah, Brahmans and orthodox Muslims all tried their best to instigate the emperor against the Guru in’every possible way, but Akbar paid no heed to their false complaints. Some Muslims tried to instigate Akbar by complaining that the Adi Granth Sahib’ written by Guru Sahib contained many sayings against Islam. When Akbar looked into the matter, he said that the Granth was worthy of reverence, On the request made by Guru Arjan Sahib, Akbar reduced the land revenue by 10%. Due to it Guru Arjan Sahib earned a good name and fame and it helped in the development of Sikhism also.

9. Nomination of the Successor: In 1606 A.D., before his martyrdom, Guru Arjan Dev Ji nominated his son Hargobind as his successor. Guru Sahib instructed him to sit fully armed on his throne and maintain an army to the best of his ability. Thus, Guru Arjan not only maintained the tradition of Gurgaddi, but also changed its peaceful course.

10. Estimate of Guru Arjan Sahib’s Achievements: Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution in the development of Sikhism is remarkable. By constructing Harmandir Sahib, he has presented to the Sikhs their most sacred religious place. In the coming times, the Sikhs always got inspiration from it. Establishment of Tarn Taran, Hargobindpur and Kartarpur proved to be very helpful in the propagation of Sikh religion. Masand system made Sikh religion more powerful.

The compilation of the Adi Granth Sahib Ji was Guru Arjan Sahib’s greatest achievement. We agree with the remarks of Prof. Harbans Singh, “Under Guru Arjan, the Fifth Guru, Sikhism became more firmly established.” According to another famous historian Dr. G.S. Mansukhani, “During the period of Guru Arjan, Sikhism took a significant stride.”

Question 3.
Give an account of the early career of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. What was his contribution to Sikhism?
Answer:

Guru Arjan Dev Ji was the fifth Guru of the Sikhs. His period of pontification was from 1581 to 1606 A.D. The pontification of Guru Arjan Dev Ji saw the unprecedented development on the one band and on the other hand his martyrdom started a new era in the Sikh history. A brief description of early career and difficulties faced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji is as under:

Early Career of Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

Difficulties of Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

After ascending Gurgaddi, Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face a number of difficulties. A brief description of these is given as under:

1. Opposition of Prithi Chand: Prithi Chand was the elder brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Therefore, he presumed himself as the true successor of Gurgaddi. But, when Guru Arjan Dev Ji was nominated as the successor by Guru Ram Das Ji he refused to submit and adopted an attitude of open defiance. He spoke bad words to his father. When Guru Rain Das Ji immersed with Immortal, Prithia spread the rumour that Arjan Dev Ji poisoned Guru Ram Das Ji so that, he might succeed to Gurgaddi. He asked Guru Arjan Dev Ji for his share in the property. Guru Arjan Dev Ji gave him all his property, but still he was not appeased.

Now, he forcibly started collecting funds brought for Langar by the Sikh Sangat and used them for his personal affairs. When in 1595 A.D. Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s wife was blessed with a son, named Hargobind, he hatched a number of conspiracies to put an end to the life of infant Hargobind. Prithi Chand planned a conspiracy against Guru Arjan Dev Ji and complained to Akbar through a Mughal employee Sulahi Khan. But Akbar paid no heed to his complaints. Thus, till his death, Prithia remained an arch enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

2. Opposition of Orthodox Muslims: Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face stiff opposition from orthodox Muslims. Muslims could never tolerate the increasing influence of Sikhs. Orthodox Muslims in order to save their religion established Naqshbandi order at Sirhind. Shaikh Ahmad Sibhindi was the leader of this organisation. In 1605 A.D., when Jahangir became the new Mughal ruler, these Naqshbandis poisoned his ears against the Sikhs. As Jahangir was an orthodox emperor, so it had the desired impact on him.

So, they asked Guru Arjan Dev Ji to turn down this proposal. Consequently, Guru Arjan Dev Ji did the same. Now Chandu Shah personally came to Guru Arjan Dev Ji and offered Rs. 1 lakh and promised to give more dowry. But Guru Arjan Dev Ji refused saying, “My words are engraved on stone, and cannot be effaced. If you give me the whole world as a dowry with your daughter, my son will not marry her.” On hearing this Chandu Shah got very angry and became Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sworn enemy.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji remained on Gurgaddi from 1581 to 1606 A.D/ With his accession to Guruship, Sikhism entered into a new phase. Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution to the development of Sikhism is multifaceted. His important achievements are as follows:

It symbolises that the people from all the four directions of the world may come to this temple of God without any discrimination on the basis of caste, colour or creed. On completion of this temple in 1601 A.D. Guru Sahib announced that the pilgrimage to this place would have the value of all the 68 Hindu places of pilgrimage and if any pilgrim takes bath here with full devotion shall attain salvation. It impressed a large number of people. They started coming here in large numbers and it helped in the propagation of Sikhism. In a very short period, Harmandir Sahib became the most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs. According to G.S. Talib,

“This temple and the pool became to Sikhism what Mecca is to Islam, Jerusalem to Judaism and Christianity and Bodh Gaya to Buddhism.”

6. Compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji: The crowning achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the development of Sikhism is the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji. The main objective of its compilation was to keep the Gurbani of the former Sikh Gurus intact and .to provide the Sikhs a separate religious scripture of their own. The compilation work was started by the Guru at Ramsar sarovar near Amritsar. He dictated the hymns to Bhai Gurdas Ji. This work was completed in 1604 A.D. In Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Guru Arjan Dev Ji included the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji and his own hymns, which were maximum (2216) in number. Besides this, he had added the hymns of many Bhagats, Sufi Saints and Bhats. Later on, the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji were also included in it.

Adi Granth Sahib Ji:

Question 4.
Write a detailed note on the compilation and historical importance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Or
Write a critical note on compilation, language, contents and significance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Answer:
Undoubtedly the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji or Guru Granth Sahib Ji is Guru Arjan Sahib’s greatest achievement. In Sikhism, this sacred Granth is as revered as the Bible by the Christians, the Quran by the Mohammedans and the Vedas and Gita by the Hindus. In fact, Adi Granth Sahib is not only a holy book of the Sikhs but also a priceless treasure for the whole humanity.

1. Need for its Compilation: Many factors impressed upon the Guru the necessity for the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji. In the times of Guru Arjan Sahib, Sikh religion was getting momentum. So, Guru Arjan Dev Ji felt the necessity of laying down rules for the guidance of his followers in the performance of their daily religious duties. Secondly, Prithia, the elder brother of Guru Arjan had also started composing religious hymns of his own which he described as the compositions of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and his successors. Under these circumstances, if the compositions of the Sikh Gurus were to be saved from spurious writings, an authentic text had to be written.

Thirdly, if the independence of the Sikh race was to be established, it was essential that they should have an independent religious book. Fourthly, Guru Arjan Dev Ji felt the need to replace the Hindu Granths, written in the Sanskrit language with a Granth of their own written in the simple language of the people of Punjab. The twenty-third and twenty-fourth pauris of the Anand Sahib state that real hymns of the Gurus should alone be repeated and revered by the Sikhs. Guru Amar Das Ji writes,

“Come, ye disciples, beloved of the true Guru, sing a true song. Sing the song of the Guru, the song of songs, Saith Nanak, ever sing this true song.” Hence it was obligatory for Guru Arjan Dev Ji to take precautions, lest the Sikhs should recite writings other than those of the Sikh Gurus.

2. Collection of Hymns: For editing Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Guru Arjan Sahib collected hymns from different sources. Hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji and Guru Amar Das Ji were lying with Baba Mohan Ji, the eldest son of Guru Amar Das Ji. Guru Arjan Sahib himself went from Amritsar to Goindwal Sahib bare-footed. Impressed by the modesty of Guru Arjan Sahib, Baba Mohan handed over the whole material to the Guru. Hymns of Guru Ram Das Ji were already with Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Guru Arjan Sahib then added his own hymns. Then, Guru Arjan Dev Ji invited many disciples of Hindu and Muslim Saints to give him the best hymns of their Gurus and Saints. Thus, the Bani was collected from different sources.

3. Compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji: For the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji, Guru Arjan Sahib selected a beautiful and solitary place situated to the south of Amritsar. Here Guru Arjan Dev Ji built a tank named as Ramsar Sarovar. On the bank of this sarovar tents were fixed under a peepal tree. Here Guru Arjan Sahib started the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji. Guru Arjan Sahib dictated and Bhai Gurdas Ji went on writing. This great work was completed in 1604 A.D. This Granth Sahib Ji was kept in Sri Harmandir Sahib and Baba Buddha Ji was appointed as the .first Head Granthi (priest).

4. Contributions in Adi Granth Sahib: Adi Granth Sahib Ji is a very vast Granth. It contains a total of 5,894 Shabads (Hymns). The contributors in Adi Granth Sahib are divided into four classes:

Sikh Gurus: Guru Granth Sahib Ji contains 976 hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, 62 of Guru Angad Dev Ji, 907 of Guru Amar Das Ji, 679 of Guru Ram Das Ji and 2216 hymns of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Later on, in Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s time 116 hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji were also included.
Bhagats and Saints: Adi Granth Sahib Ji includes the hymns of 15 Hindu Bhagats and Sufi Saints, whose teachings were similar to the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. These Saints and Bhagats are Bhagat Kabir Ji, Sheikh Farid Ji, Bhagat Namdev Ji, Bhagat Ravidas Ji, Bhagat Dhanna Ji, Bhagat Ramanand Ji and Bhagat Jaidev Ji. Out of them the maximum hymns numbering 541 belonged to Bhagat Kabir Ji.
Bhats: Adi Granth Sahib Ji also includes the sawayyas of 11 famous Bhats (Bards). These sawayyas are 123 in total. The famous Bhats are Nal Ji, Bal Ji, Jalap Ji, Bhikha Ji and Harbans Ji.
Others: The hymns of Satta, Balwand, Sunder and Mardana are also included in the Adi Granth Sahib Ji.

5. Arrangement of the Matter: Adi Granth Sahib Ji has a total of 1430 pages. The hymns of Adi Granth Sahib Ji have been divided into three parts. The first part consists of 13 pages contains the daily prayers like Japji Sahib, Rehras Sahib and Sohla. Second part is the main part of Granth Sahib. The hymns in this part have been divided into 31 parts based on 31 Ragas. As all the hymns contain the name of ‘Nanak’ therefore, the word ‘Mahala’ has been used to indicate which Guru’s composition it is. The third part contains the swayyas of Bhats, and those salokas of Sikh Gurus and Bhagats which could not be described in Ragas. Adi Granth Sahib Ji ends with an epilogue called ‘Mundavani’ which has two salokas.

6. Subject: In Adi Granth Sahib Ji, there are hymns in praise of God. It throws light on the importance of the remembrance of the Holy Nam, which is a kind of meditation, attainment of Sach Khand and importance of Guru. It gives us the message of welfare for all human beings, oneness of God and brotherhood of mankind.

7. Language: Adi Granth Sahib Ji is written in Gurmukhi script. In it, the words from Punjabi, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Sanskrit and Persian languages spoken in 15th, 16th and 17th centuries were used.

Significance of Adi Granth Sahib:

Adi Granth Sahib Ji is a matchless religious book not only of the Sikhs, but of the whole mankind. The hymns of Adi Granth Sahib Ji give the universal message of the oneness of God and brotherhood of mankind.

1. Importance for the Sikhs: The compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji is a landmark in the history of the Sikhs. Today in every Sikh Gurudwara of the world, this sacred Granth is installed at a higher platform wrapped in silk cloth under a canopy. Sikhs revere it and bow before it with great respect. All Sikh ceremonies right from the birth till death are done in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji. For the Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib is the main source of inspiration for them. According to Dr. Wazir Singh,
“The Adi Granth‘was indeed his most precious gift to the Sikh world.”

2. Message of Brotherhood: Adi Granth Sahib Ji is the only sacred book of the world, which contains the hymns without any distinction on the basis of caste, colour and creed. By doing so Guru Arjan Sahib has given the message of brotherhood to all human beings.

3. Literary Importance: From the literary point of view Adi Granth Sahib is a unique work. It contains beautiful similies and embellishments. It has a, form and finish not equalled by subsequent writers. Therefore, from the literary point of view Guru Granth Sahib carries immense importance.

4. Historical Importance: No doubt Adi Granth Sahib Ji is a religious scripture, yet it furnishes valuable information regarding the social, religious political and economic life of 15th to 17th centuries. Guru Nanak Sahib gave a vivid account of the political condition of that time in Babar Vani. In social field women’s position was miserable. They occupied a very low place in the society. A widow was cursed by one and all. Hindu society was divided into a number of castes and sub-castes. Guru Granth Sahib Ji also throws a good deal of light on the agriculture and trade and commerce of that period. According to Dr. D.S. Dhillon,
“Its compilation was undoubtedly an important landmark in the history of the Sikhs.”

Martyrdom Of Guru Arjan Dev Ji:

Question 5.
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji? What was the significance of this martyrdom?
Or
Explain the circumstances responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji,
Or
Write in detail about the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and its effects,
Or
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji? What was its importance?
Or
Explain the causes which led to the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. What was the real cause of the martyrdom?
Or
Examine the circumstances leading to the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. What was the significance of his martyrdom?
Or
Describe the circumstances that led to the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. What is the significance of his martyrdom?
Or
Discuss the causes and importance of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Describe the causes and significance of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
In 1606 A.D., Guru Arjan Dev Ji sacrificed his life for the sake of religion and truth. His martyrdom started a new era in Sikh history. Now Sikhs began to arm themselves to face the Mughals with bravery and courage. Many factors were responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, which are discussed as below:

1. Fanaticism of Jahangir: Jahangir’s fanaticism was the main reason for Guru Arjan Ji’s martyrdom. He could not bear to see any other religion more prosperous than Islam. He could not tolerate the growing popularity of Sikhs in Punjab. So, he was looking for a chance to hamper their development. He wanted to put a stop to all this. He has written about it in his autobiography Tuzak-i- Jahangiri, “In Goindwal on the banks of the river Beas lived a Hindu named Arjan in the garb of ‘Pir’ or ‘Shaikh’. By his ways and manners he captured the fancy of many of the simple hearted Hindus and even many ignorant Muslims. He had loudly sounded the drum of his being Pir and a holy person.

They called him Guru and from all sides innocent and foolish people crowded to manifest their complete faith in him. For three or four generations they had kept their shop warm. Many times I thought of putting a stop to this vain affair onto bring him to Islam.” These words of Jahangir clearly show that his religious fanaticism was the main reason behind the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji

3. Enmity of Prithi Chand: Prithi Chand alias Prithia was the eldest brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He was a very greedy and selfish person. For this reason only Guru Ram Das Ji appointed Guru Arjan Sahib as his successor in 1581 A.D. Prithia could not tolerate that the Gurgaddi had passed on to somebody else. He then made a firm decision that he would not sit at ease until he had dethroned Guru Arjan Dev Ji and received Gurgaddi for himself. So, he started opposing Guru Arjan Dev Ji openly. He collected money from Masands meant for Langar and used it for his own personal use.

He tried to popularise his own compositions naming them as those of Guru Arjan Sahib’s. He started planning a conspiracy against Guru Arjan Dev Ji with the help of some Mughal officials. It further strained the relationship between the Mughals and Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

4. Enmity of Chandu Shah: Chandu Shah was the Diwan cJ Lahore. He was looking for a suitable match for his daughter. Many advisors suggested him to marry his daughter with Hargobind, the son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He on hearing it Chander Shah was emerged and he uttered some objectionable words in the house of Guru Sahib. Afterwards, when Chandu Shah’s wife convinced him, he was ready to accept this relation. By this time, Guru Arjan Dev Ji came to know about all those abusive words Chandu Shah had uttered for him. So, he refused to accept shagun sent by Chandu Shah. When Chandu Shah came to know about this, he was determined to avenge the insult. He started poisoning Jahangir’s ears and he succeeded in getting what he wanted. Jahangir made up his mind to take a strict action against Guru Arjan Sahib.

5. Opposition of Naqshbandis: Naqshbandis played an important role in the martyrdom of Guru Sahib. Naqshbandi was an order started by fanatic Muslims. Muslims could never see any other religion prospering and developing. Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi, the leader of Naqshbandis, had great influence in Mughal Darbar. So, he also instigated Jahangir against Guru Sahib. Therefore, Jahangir decided to take action against Guru Sahib.

6. Compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji: The compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji was another important reason of Guru Arjan Sahib’s martyrdom. Opponents of Guru Arjan Dev Ji complained against him to Jahangir saying that he had written many things against Islam. Jahangir instructed Guru Arjan Dev Ji to remove all anti-Islamic points from the Granth Sahib Ji. But Guru Arjan Dev Ji said that Guru Granth Sahib Ji contained nothing against Islam. Then Jahangir asked him to write something about Hazrat Mohammad in this scripture. But Guru Arjan Dev Ji said that he could not do any such thing without Almighty’s permission. This enraged Jahangir all the more.

7. Help of Khusrau: Help of Khusrau by Guru Arjan Dev Ji became the immediate cause of Guru Arjan Dev Ji martyrdom. Prince Khusrau had revolted against his father some time after his enthronement. On reaching Punjab Khusrau came to Tarn Taran to seek Guru Arjan Dev Ji blessings. It is said that Guru Arjan Dev Ji put a tilak on his forehead and gave him all sorts of help required to go to Kabul. When Jahangir came to know about all this he got a golden opportunity to take stern action against Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He ordered Lahore Governor, Murtaza Khan to execute him by giving severe physical tortures, and to confiscate the whole of his property.

How was Guru Arjan Dev Ji Martyred?

On Jahangir’s order Guru Arjan Dev Ji was arrested on 24th May, 1606 A.D. and brought to Lahore. Here Muslim Sufi Saint Mian Mir requested Jahangir to spare his life. Jahangir asked Guru Arjan Dev Ji to pay a fine of Rs. 2 lakh for sparing his life. But Guru Arjan Dev Ji refused to pay this fine. As a result, the Mughals made Guru Arjan Dev Ji to sit in a vessel of boiling water. Then Guru Arjan Dev Ji was made to sit on hot iron bars and hot sand was thrown on his naked body. The Guru Arjan Dev Ji bore all the tortures cheerfully by uttering the following verse: –

“Whatever you ordain appears sweet. I supplicate for the gift of Nam.”
Thus, Guru Arjan Dev Ji was immersed in Eternal Light on 30th May, 1606 A.D. at Lahore.

Significance of the Martyrdom:

The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was an event of tremendous importance in the evolution of the Sikh movement and in the history of Punjab.

1. New Policy of Guru Hargobind Sahib: The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji proved a turning point in the development of the Sikh community. Guru Hargobind Ji decided to adopt a New Policy in order to turn his followers into saint soldiers. He constructed Akal Takht Sahib with a view to impart military training to the Sikhs. He asked his followers to bring him horses and arms and join his army. It changed the entire character of the reformatory religious movement. According to famous historian K.S. Duggal, “Guru Arjan’s martyrdom precipitated the issues. It gave a new complexion to the shape of things in the Punjab and the Sikh Polity.”

2. Unity among the Sikhs: The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji infused a new spirit among the Sikhs. Now, they felt the need of joining their hands in order to put an end to the tyrannical rule of the Mughals. The Sikhs, henceforth, began to assemble under one banner. It created a glorious tradition in the Sikh history. Undoubtedly its credit goes to the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

3. Change in relationship between Mughals and the Sikhs: Before the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, there were cordial relations between the Sikh Gurus and the Mughal emperors. But, now with the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the position had been completely reversed. The Sikhs became the sworn enemy of the Mughals. They were now looking for an opportunity to avenge the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. On the other hand, the Mughal emperors also did not like that the Sikhs should take to arms. Thus, it strained the relationship between the Sikhs and the Mughals.

4. Persecution of the Sikhs: After the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Mughals started a reign of terror against the Sikhs. Jahangir had put Guru Hargobind Ji in prison in the-fort of Gwalior. During the reign of Shah Jahan, Guru Hargobind Ji was forced to fight four battles with the Mughals. In 1675 A.D., Aurangzeb got Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji martyred in Delhi. During his rule, he left no stone unturned to convert the whole of India into Islam. A large number of people were put to sword for refusing to embrace Islam. To face boldly the tyrannies of the Mughals, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Banda Singh Bahadur and thousands of other Sikhs laid down their lives. In fact, the Sikhs got this inspiration of self¬sacrifice from the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.-

5. Popularity of Sikhism: With the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Sikhism became more popular. This incident infused a new vigour, love and reverence for Sikhism, not only among the Hindus, but also among the Muslims. Consequently, they began to join Sikhism in larger numbers. Thus, the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji proved a milestone in the development of Sikhism. According to famours historian Dr. G.S. Mansukhani, “The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib marks a .turning point in the development of Sikh religion.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Write a brief note on the difficulties faced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji immediately after his accession to Gurgaddi.
Or
What were the difficulties faced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, when he became the Guru?
Answer:
At the time of accession to Gurgaddi, Guru Arjan Dev Ji had to face the opposition firstly of his elder brother Prithi Chand. He vehemently protested against his supersession. The fanatic Muslims of Punjab could not bear the growing influence of the Sikhs in Punjab. They incited Jahangir against Guru Ji. Chandu Shah was the Diwan of Lahore. He had sent a proposal to Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the marriage of his daughter to his son Hargobind Ji. But Guru Arjan Dev ji declined the proposal. As a result, Chandu Shah turned a sworn enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 2. What was Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s contribution to the development of Sikhism?
Or
Describe briefly the contributions of Guru Arjan Dev Ji in the development of Sikhism.
Or
Give a brief account of the organizational works of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:

By making Sri Harmandir Sahib at Amritsar, Guru Arjan Dev Ji gave the Sikhs their most sacred place of pilgrimage,
He built a Baoli at Lahore.
The development of the Masand system was one of his greatest achievements.
The compilation of Guru Granth Sahib in 1604 A.D. by Guru Arjan Dev Ji is considered his crowning achievement.

Question 3.
Write a brief note on Harmandir Sahib.
Or
Describe briefly the importance of the foundation of Sri Harmandir Sahib by Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Give a brief account of the foundation and importance of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Or
Briefly describe the importance of the foundation of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
The building of Sri Harmandir Sahib is one of the greatest achievements of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. It was constructed in the midst of Amrit Sarovar. Guru Arjan Dev Ji got its foundation laid by a famous Sufi saint, Mian Mir in 1588 A.D. Harmandir means “Temple of God.’ Guru Arjan Dev Ji kept the height of the building of Sri Harmandir Sahib lower than those of the surrounding buildings and said, “What is humble, shall be exalted.” Soon, Sri Harmandir Sahib became the leading pilgrimage centre of the Sikhs.

Question 4.
What do you know about the Masand system? Explain.
Or
Examine the organization and development of the Masand system.
Or
What do you mean by the Masand system?
Answer:
“Masand’ is derived from the Persian word Masand which means ‘a high place’. This system was set up by Guru Ram Das Ji, but its real development took place during Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s time. Guru Arjan Dev Ji announced that each Sikh should offer Daswandh (one-tenth of income) to him. He appointed Masands to collect Daswandh from the Sikh Sangat. The Masands not only collected Daswandh but also preached Sikhism. Masand system played a significant role in the evolution of the Sikh movement.

Question 5.
What were the functions of the Masands?
Answer:

Masand’s used to preach Sikhism in the area under him.
He used to collect Daswandh from the Sikh Sangat.
Masand’s used to deposit the collected Daswandh to the Guru Sahib on the occasions of Baisakhi and Diwali.

Question 6.
Write a short note on Tarn Taran and Its importance.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji, founded the city of Tarn Taran in 1590 A.D. Here a Sarovar named Tarn Taran was also dug. Tarn Taran means that any pilgrim, who takes bath in this Sarovar shall get salvation from transmigration. Tarn Taran also became a famous holy place of the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Jats of the Majha became the followers of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and embraced Sikhism. The services of these Jats towards Sikhism were of great value.

Question 7.
Write a note on the importance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji (Guru
Or
Briefly explain the significance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Or
Write a short note on Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Or
Give a brief description of Adi Granth Sahib Ji and its historical
Answer:
The most important work during Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s pontificate was the compilation of Adi Granth Sahib Ji. The objective was to compile the Bani of Gurus in one place. Guru Arjan Dev Ji initiated this great work at Ramsar. The Bani of the first five Guru Sahibs, Saints, and Bhagats was included in it. The job of writing Guru Granth Sahib was done by Bhai Gurdas Ji. This great work was completed in 1604 A.D. Later on, the Bani of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was also included in it. Adi Granth Sahib occupies a special place in the history of Sikhism.

Question 8.
Briefly explain the importance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Or
What is the importance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
Answer:
No doubt Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a religious scripture, yet it furnishes valuable information regarding the social, religious, political, and economic life of the 16th and 17th centuries. Guru Nanak Sahib gave a vivid account of the political condition of that time in Babar Vani. In the social field, women’s position was miserable. The compilation of Adi Granth Sahib is a landmark in the history of the Sikhs. It gave the message of the universal brotherhood of mankind to the world.

Question 9.
Write a note on Prithi Chand.
Or
Who was Prithi Chand? Why did he oppose Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Or
Who was Prithi Chand (Prithia)? How did he act against Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
Prithi Chand or Prithia was the elder brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He was. the founder of the Mina Sect. He was very selfish and cunning. That is why Guru Ram Das Ji gave the Gurgaddi to Guru Arjan Dev Ji instead of giving it to him. On hearing this decision, Prithi Chand got furious. He hoped that his son Meharban would get Gurgaddi after Guru Arjan Dev Ji. But when Guru Arjan Dev Ji was blessed with a son, Hargobind, all his hopes seemed to dash to the ground. Therefore, he became a sworn enemy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 10.
Who was Chandu Shah? Why did he oppose Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Or
Why does Chandu Shah oppose Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Or
Write a short note on Chandu Shah.
Answer:
Chandu Shah was the Diwan of Lahore. He was looking for a suitable match for his daughter. His messengers proposed the name of Hargobind, son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, for his daughter. On hearing this Chandu Shah was enraged and uttered some objectionable words in honor of Guru Ji. But after being persuaded by his wife, he agreed to the proposal. Again he sent his messengers to Guru Arjan Dev Ji with this proposal. Guru Arjan Dev Ji turned down the proposal. On hearing this Chandu Shah got very angry and became Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sworn enemy.

Question 11.
Mention the three causes for the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Examine three major causes of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
What were the three main causes of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:

Jahangir could not tolerate the flourishing of Sikhism.
Chandu Shah, the Diwan of Lahore sent a proposal of his daughter’s marriage to Hargobind, the son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. When this proposal was not accepted, Chandu Shah turned Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sworn enemy.
The help rendered to Khusrau, the elder son of Jahangir, by Guru Arjan Ji became an immediate reason for the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Prithi Chand played a great role in the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 12.
Describe the role of Naqshbandis in the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib.
Answer:
Naqshabandis played an important role in the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib. Naqshbandi was an order started by fanatic Muslims. Naqshbandis were enraged to see the increasing influence of the Sikhs in Punjab. Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi, the leader of Naqshbandis had great influence in Mughal Darbar. So, he also instigated Jahangir against Guru Ji. Therefore, Jahangir decided” to take action against Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 13.
Why was Jahangir hostile to Sikh Gurus?
Answer:

Jahangir could not tolerate the rapidly increasing power of the Sikhs under Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Some Muslims had embraced Sikhism. It embroiled the blood of Jahangir.
Jahangir could not tolerate the help rendered to rebellious Prince Khusrau.

Question 14.
What was the immediate cause of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
The help of Khusrau by Guru Arjan Dev Ji became the immediate cause of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom. Prince Khusrau was the eldest son of Jahangir. He revolted against his father sometime after his enthronement. Khusrau came to seek Guru Arjan Dev Ji blessings. It is said that Guru Arjan Dev Ji put a tilak on his forehead. When Jahangir came to know about all this he got a golden opportunity to take stern action against Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 15.
Write the importance of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom.
Or
Write down the impact of the martyrdom of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Or
Briefly describe the importance of martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji
Answer:
The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji gave a new turn to Sikh history. The peace-loving Sikhs flared up as a result of this martyrdom. It became evident to them that taking to arms was now essential. That is why Guru Hargobind Ji adopted a New Policy. He carried two swords of Miri and Piri. In this way, Guru Arjan Dev Ji turned the Sikhs into saint-soldiers. After the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the era of friendship between the Sikhs and the Mughals came to an end.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was the fifth Guru of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 2.
When was Guru Arjan Dev Ji born?
Answer:
April 15, 1563 A.D.

Question 3.
Where was Guru Arjan Dev Ji born?
Answer:
Goindwal Sahib.

Question 4.
What was the name of the father of Guru Arjan- Dev Ji?
Answer:
Guru Ram Das Ji.

Question 5.
What was the name of the mother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
Bibi Bhani Ji.

Question 6.
Mention the pontificate of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
1581 to 1606 A.D.

Question 7.
Who was Prithia?
Answer:
The eldest brother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 8.
Why was Prithia annoyed with Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
Because he considered himself the real claimant of the Giirgaddi.

Question 9.
Which sect was founded by Prithi Chand?
Answer:
Mina sect.

Question 10.
What was the name of Meharban’s father?
Answer:
Prithi Chand.

Question 11.
Who was Chandu Shah?
Answer:
Diwan of Lahore.

Question 12.
Name any one achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
He founded Harmandir Sahib at Amritsar.

Question 13.
What is meant by Harmandir Sahib?
Answer:
The place of God’s residence.

Question 14.
By which Guru was Harmandir Sahib got built?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 15.
Who laid the foundation stone of Harmandir Sahib?
Answer:
Famous Sufi Saint Mian Mir.

Question 16.
When was the foundation of Harmandir Sahib laid?
Answer:
1588 A.D.

Question 17.
When was the construction of Harmandir Sahib completed?
Answer:
1601 A.D.

Question 18.
Who was the first Head Granthi of Harmandir Sahib?
Answer:
Baba Buddha Ji.

Question 19.
Why four doors have been built on* four sides of Harmandir Sahib?
Or
What do the four doors of Harmandir Sahib, indicate?
Answer:
It indicates that the doors of Harmandir Sahib are open for people coming from all four directions without any discrimination.

Question 20.
What is meant by Tarn Taran?
Answer:
A person can swim across the world by bathing in the tank of Tarn Taran.

Question 21.
Who got town of Tarn Taran constructed?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 22.
Which Guru got built a Baoli in Dabbi Bazar at Lahore?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 23.
What is meant by the word Masand?
Answer:
High place.

Question 24.
What does Daswandh imply?
Answer:
Daswandh means the 1/10th of income which the Sikhs gave to the Masands.

Question 25.
When was Adi Granth Sahib Ji compiled?
Answer:
1604 A.D.

Question 26.
Which Guru Sahib compiled Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 27.
Who helped Guru Arjan Dev Ji in compiling the Adi Granth Sahib?
Answer:
Bhai Gurdas Ji.

Question 28.
When was Adi Granth Sahib Ji installed in Harmandir Sahib?
Answer:
16th Aug, 1604 A.D.

Question 29.
Which Guru composed the maximum Shabads (Hymns) for Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 30.
What is the number of saints whose hymns (bani) have been included in the Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
Answer:
15.

Question 31.
Name any one saint, whose hymns have been included in Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Answer:
Kabir Ji.

Question 32.
Into how many Ragas the Adi Granth Sahib Ji has been divided?
Answer:
Adi Granth Sahib has been divided into 31 Ragas.

Question 33.
How many pages (Angas) does Adi Granth Sahib Ji contain?
Answer:
1430.

Question 34.
Write the name of the script of ‘Adi Granth Sahib Ji’.
Answer:
Gurmukhi.

Question 35.
Name the main religious book of (Granth Sahib) the Sikhs.
Answer:
Adi Granth Sahib Ji or Guru Granth Sahib Ji„

Question 36.
With which Bani does the Adi Granth Sahib Ji start?
Answer:
Japji Sahib.

Question 37.
Who composed Japji Sahib?
Answer:
Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Question 38.
What is the importance of Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
Answer:
It contains the message of universal brotherhood of mankind.

Question 39.
Who was Baba Buddha Ji?
Answer:
The first Head Granthi of Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar.

Question 40.
Name the central shrine of the Sikhs.
Answer:
Sri Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar.

Question 41.
Who was Chandu Shah?
Answer:
Diwan of Lahore.

Question 42.
Who was Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi?
Answer:
The head of Naqashbandi order.

Question 43.
What was the name of the eldest son of Jahangir?
Answer:
Khusrau.

Question 44.
Who was the first martyr among the Sikh Gurus?
Or
Which Guru is known as King of Martyrs (Shaheedan de Sartaj).
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Question 45.
Which Mughal emperor ordered to martyr Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
Answer:
Jahangir.

Question 46.
When was Guru Arjan Dev Ji martyred?
Answer:
May 30, 1606 A.D.

Question 47.
Where was Guru Arjan Dev Ji martyred?
Answer:
In Lahore.

Question 48.
Write down any one result of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
It inflammed the sentiments of the Sikhs.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was the ……………… Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
fifth

2. The name of the father of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was …………………..
Answer:
Guru Ram Das Ji

3. The name of the mother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was ……………….
Answer:
Bibi Bhani

4. The name of the son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was ………………….
Answer:
Hargobind

5. Guru Arjan Dev Ji succeeded to Guruship in ………………..
Answer:
1581 A.D.

6. Prithia established ………………..
Answer:
Mina sect

7. Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi started the …………………. order.
Answer:
Naqashbandi

8. Naqasbandis established their headquarters at …………………
Answer:
Sirhind

9. Chandu Shah was the Diwan of ……………..
Answer:
Lahore

10. ……………. got built Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji

11. Famous Saint ……………… laid the foundation stone of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
Mian Mir

12. ………………. founded Tarn Taran.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji

13. ………………. got built a Baoli at Lahore.
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji

14. The Adi Granth Sahib was complied by …………………
Answer:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji

15. Compilation of the Adi Granth Sahib was completed in ………………..
Answer:
1604 A.D.

16. ………………… was appointed as the first Head Granthi in Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
Baba Buddha Ji

17. The autobiography of Jahangir is …………………..
Answer:
Tuzak-i-Jahangiri

18. Dara Shikoh’s father’s name was …………………
Answer:
Jahangir

19. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred on …………………
Answer:
May 30, 1606 A.D.

20. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred at ………………..
Answer:
Lahore

21. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred by Mughal emperor …………………
Answer:
Jahangir

True or False:

1. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was the fifth Guru of the Sikhs.
Answer:
True

2. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was born on April 15, 1563 A.D.
Answer:
True

3. Tripta Devi was the name of mother of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
False

4. The name of the son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was Hargobind Ji.
Answer:
True

5. Prithi Chand found the Mina Sect.
Answer:
True

6. Chandu Shah became the friend of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
False

7. Guru Arjan Dev Ji got constructed the Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
True

8. The construction of Harmandir Sahib was started in 1688 A.D.
Answer:
False

9. The foundation of Harmandir Sahib was laid by Sufi Saint, Mian Mir.
Answer:
True

10. Development of Masand system was the greatest achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Answer:
True

11. Guru Arjan Dev Ji compiled Adi Granth Sahib Ji in 1604 A.D.
Answer:
True

12. Baba Buddha Ji wrote hymns of Adi Granth Sahib.
Answer:
False

13. Baba Buddha Ji was the first Head Granthi (priest) of Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
True

14. The hymns of Adj Granth Sahib Ji have been divided according to 33 Ragas.
Answer:
False

15. Adi Granth Sahib Ji has a total of 1430 pages.
Answer:
True

16. Guru Granth Sahib Ji has hymns of six Gurus.
Answer:
True

17. Adi Granth Sahib Ji is written in Sanskrit Language.
Answer:
False

18. The writer of Tuzak-i-Babari was Jahangir.
Answer:
False

19. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred in 1606 A.D.
Answer:
True

20. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred on the orders of Aurangjeb.
Answer:
False

21. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred at Lahore.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the fifth Guru of Sikhs?
(a) Guru Ram Das Ji
(b) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(c) Guru Hargobind Ji
(d) Guru Har Krishan Ji
Answer:
(b) Guru Arjan Dev Ji

2. When was Guru Arjan Dev Ji born?
(a) In 1539 AD.
(b) In 1560 A.D.
(c) In 1563 A.D
(d) In 1574 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1563 A.D

3. Where was Guru Arjan Dey Ji born?
(a) Amritsar
(b) Khadur Sahib
(c) Goindwal Sahib
(d) Tarn Taran.
Answer:
(c) Goindwal Sahib

4. Who was the father of Guru Arjan Dcv Ji?
(a) Guru Amar Das Ji
(b) Guru Ram Das Ji
(c) Bhai Gurdas Ji
(d) Haridas Ji
Answer:
(b) Guru Ram Das Ji

5. What was the name of the mother of Guru Arjan Dcv Ji?
(a) Bibi Bhani Ji
(b) Bibi Amro Ji
(c) Bibi Anokhi Ji
(d) Bibi Dhanì Ji.
Answer:
(a) Bibi Bhani Ji

6. Which sect was, founded by Prithin?
(a) Mina
(b) Udasi
(c) Harms
(d) Nirjania
Answer:
(a) Mina

7. Whose son was Meharban?
(a) Guru Arjan Dcv Ji
(b) Sri Chiad Ji
(c) Baba Mohan Ji
(d) Prithi Chand.
Answer:
(d) Prithi Chand.

8. When did Guru Arjan Dev Ji succeed to Guruship?
(a) In 1580 A.D.
(b) In 1581 A.D.
(c) In 1585 A.D.
(d) In 1586 A.D.
Answer:
(b) In 1581 A.D.

9. Where was headquarter of Naqshbandis located In Punjab?
(a) Malerkutla
(b) Ludhiana
(c) Jalandhar
(d) Sirhind
Answer:
(d) Sirhind

10. Who was the leader of Naqshbandis at the time of Guru Arjan Dev Ji?
(a) Baba Farid Ji
(b) Data Ganj Baksh
(c) Shaikh Abmed Sirhindi
(d) Ram Rai.
Ans.
(c) Shaikh Abmed Sirhindi

11. Who was Chandu Shah?
(a) Diwan of Lahore
(b) Faujdar of Punjab
(c) Subedar of Jalandhar
(d) Diwan of Multan
Answer:
(a) Diwan of Lahore

12. When was the foundation of Sri Harmandir Sahib laid?
Answer:
(a) In 1581 A.D.
(b) In 1585 A.D.
(c) In 1588 A.D.
(d) In 1589 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1588 A.D.

13. Who laid the foundation of sri Harmandir Sahib?
(a) Guru Arjan Dev Ji
(b) Baba Farid Ji
(c) Saint Mian Mir Ji
(d) Baba Buddha Ji.
Answer:
(c) Saint Mian Mir Ji

14. Where did Guru Arjan Dev Ji Start compiling of the Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
(a) Ramsar
(b) Goindwal Sahib
(c) Khadur Sahib
(d) Baba Bakala
Answer:
(a) Ramsar

15. Who helped Guru Arjan Dev Ji in compiling the Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
(a) Baba Buddha Ji
(b) Bhai Gurdas Ji
(c) Bhai Moh1cam Chand Ji
(d) Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
Ans.
(b) Bhai Gurdas Ji

16. When was compilation of the Adj Granth Sahib Ji completed?
(a) In 1600 A.D.
(b) In 1601 A.D.
(c) In 1602 A.D.
(d) In 1604 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1604 A.D.

17. Where was the Adj Granth Sahib JI first kept?
(a) Sri Harnjandjr Sahib
(b) Khadur Sahib
(c) Goindwal Sahib
(d) Nankana Sahib.
Answer:
(a) Sri Harnjandjr Sahib

18. When was the Adj Granth Sahib Ji first read.?
(t) In 1602 AD.
(ii) In 1604 A.D.
(iii) In 1605 A.D.
(iv) In 1606 A.D.
Answer:
(ii) In 1604 A.D.

19. Who was appointed First Head Granthi in the Sri Harmandir Sahib?
(a) Bhai Gurdas Ji
(b) Bhai Mani Singh Ji
(c) Baba Buddha Ji
(d) Baba Deep Singh Ji
Answer:
(c) Baba Buddha Ji

20. Into how many Ragas has the Bani of the Adj Granth Sahib Ji been divided?
(a) 10
(b) 15
(c) 21
(d) 31
Answer:
(d) 31

21. In which Script the Adi Granth Sahib Ji was written?
(a) Hindi
(b) Persian
(c) Marathi
(d) Gurmukhi
Answer:
(d) Gurmukhi

22. Who was Baba Buddha Ji?
(a) The first Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib Amrister.
(b) Writer of the Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
(c) The founder of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
(d) None of These
Answer:
(a) The first Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib Amrister.

23. Name the main religious scripture of the Sikhs.
(a) Adi Granth Sahib Ji
(b) Dasam Granth Sahib Ji
(c) Zafarnama
(d) Rehat Nama
Answer:
(a) Adi Granth Sahib Ji

24. Name the main religious scripture of the Sikhs.
(a) Sri Harmandir Sahib
(b) Sis Ganj
(c) Rakab Ganj
(d) Kesgarh Sahib
Answer:
(a) Sri Harmandir Sahib

25. What was the name of autobiography of Jahangir?
(a) Tuzak-i-Babari
(b) Tuzak-i-Jahangiri
(c) Jahangir Nama
(d) Aalamgir Nama.
Answer:
(b) Tuzak-i-Jahangiri

26. Name the first martyr among the Sikh Gurus.
(a) Guru Nanak Dey Ji
(b) Guni Amar Das Ji
(c) Guru Arjan Dey Ji
(d) Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Answer:
(c) Guru Arjan Dey Ji

27. On the orders of which Mughal emperor was Guru Arjan Dey Ji martyred?
(a) Babar
(b) Jahangir
(c) Shah Jahan
(d) Aurangzeb.
Answer:
(b) Jahangir

28. Where was Guru Arjan Dcv Ji martyred?
(a) Delhi
(b) Amritsar
(c) Lahore
(d) Multan.
Answer:
(c) Lahore

29. When was Guru Arjan Dey Ji martyred?
(a) In 1604 A.D.
(b) In 1605 A.D.
(c) In 1606 A.D.
(d) In 1609 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1606 A.D.

PSEB 11th Class Political Science Solutions Chapter 25 The Union Legislature

December 20, 2024December 19, 2024 by Prasanna

Punjab State Board PSEB 11th Class Political Science Book Solutions Chapter 25 The Union Legislature Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 25 The Union Legislature

Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Describe the composition of Indian Parliament and compare the powers of the Rajya Sabha with those of the Lok Sabha.
Or
Discuss the composition of Indian Parliament. Describe the relations between the two Houses of Parliament.
Answer:
All the legislative powers of the federal government are vested in the Parliament. The laws framed by the Indian Parliament are enforced in the whole of the country. The Parliament holds its meetings in New Delhi, the Capital of India.

Composition:
Article 79 of the Constitution provides a bicameral parliament for the Union. The Union Parliament consists of the president and the two Houses to be known respectively as the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha).

1. Rajya Sabha:
Rajya Sabha is the upper chamber of the Parliament. It can have at the most 250 members in it. The President of India nominates 12 members. These are the persons who have distinguished themselves in the field of art, literature, science and social service. Rest of the members are elected by the members of State legislatures. At present it consists of 245 (233 + 12) members in all. l/3rd of its members retire after every two years and other members are elected to fill up the vacancies. Each member remains in office for a period of 6 years.

2. Lok Sabha:
Lok Sabha is the lower chamber of the Parliament. It can have at the most 550 elected members. The members will be elected acording to the laws framed by the Union Parliament. The President can nominate two members of the Anglo-Indian community if he feels that in the Lok Sabha this- community has not got adequate representation. In this manner maximum strength of the Lok Sabha can be 552.

But at present Lok Sabha has 543 elected members. The members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a period of 5 years. The President of India can dissolve the Lok Sabha before the expiry of its term and can order fresh elections. The members of the Lok Sabha elect one Speaker and one Deputy Speaker from amongst its members.

Salary and Allowances of the Members of Parliament:
The salary and allowances of the members of Parliament are determined by Parliament from time to time. Session of the Parliament. The President of India convenes the session of the Parliament. He can call the sessions of both the Houses on the same date or on different dates. The second session of the Parliament must be convened within a period of 6 months. There should not be a difference of more than 6 months between the last meeting of the last session and the first meeting of the next session. This way two sessions are certainly called in one year.

Relations Between The Two Houses Of Parliament
Although the participation and collaboration of both the Houses are essential for all legislative activities, even a cursory perusal of the provisions of the Constitution with regard to the two Houses of Parliament will show that the Constitution recognizes the supremacy of the Lok Sabha over the Rajya Sabha. The two Houses, unlike the Australian Parliament do not stand on the footing of equality. The relation of the two Houses, unlike the Australian Parliament does not stand on the footing of equality. The relation of the two Houses may be discussed as under:

1. Ordinary Bills:
Ordinary Bills can originate in either House of Parliament. Unless passed by both the Houses they cannot be sent to the President for his assent. A Bill passed by one House is sent to the other House. If the other House passes the Bill in the form in which it was passed by originating House, it is sent to the President for his assent. The other House may propose amendments in the Bill or may even reject the Bill.

Thus, if the two Houses do not agree on the proposed amendments or if the two Houses finally disagree on the Bill, the President, under Art. 108 of the Constitution is empowered to call a joint meeting of the two Houses. In case the receiving House takes no action on the Bill for six months from the date of its receipt in that case also the President may summon a joint meeting of both the Houses. It should be noted that there can be no joint meeting of the two Houses if the Bill has lapsed because of the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.

Even if the President has already issued a notification for joint sitting and even if the date, time and place of the meeting have been announced and summons issued, the meeting shall have to be cancelled because no joint sitting can be held for deliberating and voting on a Bill which has already lapsed. When the President has notified his intention to summon the two Houses to meet in a joint sitting, neither House can proceed with the Bill.

If at the joint meeting of the two Houses the Bill is passed by a majority of the total number of members of both Houses present and voting, it shall be deemed to have been passed by both the Houses. At the joint sitting of the two Houses, the voice of the Lok Sabha should prevail because of its numerical strength. It should not, however, be taken for granted. In India, thus, the Rajya Sabha can delay a Bill or six months.

It may succeed in killing it also especially when the Government has a thin majority in the Lok Sabha and substantial opposition in the Rajya Sabha. In England, the House of Lords can delay a non-money Bill for one year. There is no provision for a joint sitting. In Japan also there is no provision for a joint sitting of the two Houses in case of a deadlock over a Bill. The Upper House of Japn (House of Councillors) can delay an ordinary Bill for sixty days. If the Lower House passes that Bill for the second time by a two-third majority of the members present the Bill is deemed to have been passed by both the Houses.

2. Money Bills:
Money Bills and Budget can originate in the Lok Sabha only. The Rajya Sabha is the receiving end. When a Money Bill is passed by the Lok Sabha it is sent to he Rajya Sabha for its recommendations. The Rajya Sabha, has the right to propose amendments in the Money Bill. It must return the Bill to the Lok Sabha, with or without amendments, within 14 days, but Lok Sabha may or may not agree to those recommendations.

If the Rajya Sabha does not return the Money Bill within 14 days from the date of the receipt of the Bill, the same shall be considered to have been passed by both the Houses of Parliament in the same form in which it was passed by the Lok Sabha. All these provisions clearly prove that the hold of the Lok Sabha over the finance of the country is complete and absolute. It should be noted that in case of disagreement over Money Bill, there cannot be a joint sitting of the two Houses. The Senate of Australia possesses the power to reject even a Money Bill.

The House of Lords of England can delay a money bill for a month. The Upper House of Japan can also delay the passage of a money bill for 30 days. In matters of finance the powers of the Rajya Sabha are insignificant.

3. Control over the Executive:
In India, Parliamentary system of Government has been established. The essence of this form of Government is that the executive is responsible to the legislature for its actions and policies. In practice it is answerable to the Popular House. Thus, according to the Constitution of India, the Council of Ministers has been made collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.

No doubt, the Rajya Sabha can exert its influence on the Govenment in a number of ways and it may even put the Government in an awkward position, but it cannot remove the Government from office. This power belongs to the Lok Sabha only. This power of the Lok Sabha is exclusive and not concurrent. The Government must enjoy the confidence of the Lok Sabha or else resign. The Lok Sabha can express its lack of confidence in a number of ways, for example by rejecting a Government Bill, a Money Bill or by passing a no confidence resolution.

Thus, the Government must either be in tune with the Lok Sabha or face expulsion. One point may be noted here. The Council of ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. The Constitution does not speak of individual responsibility. Moreover, it is not clear that when the Lok Sabha stands dissolved, to whom is the Council of Ministers responsible then? Afer the dissolution of the Lok Sabha in December 1970, the continuance of Indira Government was challenged in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court upheld the legality of the continuance of Indira Gandhi Government.

4. Other Matters:
On the other matters, the powers of the two Houses are almost equal. They are enumerated as under:

(i) Constitution Amending Bill can be introduced in either House of Parliament. It is deemed to have been passed only when each House passes it by the required majority. Since the Amending Bill has to be passed by each House, the question of joint sitting of the two Houses in case of disagreement does not arise. In this repsect the Rajya Sabha has co-equal powers with the Lok Sabha. It may even kill an amending Bill.

(ii) Both the Houses take part in the election of the President and Vice President.

(iii) Both the Houses have equal powers in the removal of the President, Charges can be preferred in either House, the other House investigates or gets them investigated by a court or a tribunal, but the House cannot abdicate its authority, it has to pass the resolution by 2/3rd majority if the impeachment proceeding is to succeed.

(iv) The Vice President can also be removed from office by the Parliament. Removal proceedings against the Vice President can start only in the Rajya Sabha, but the Lok Sabha must also agree if the Vice President is to be removed from office.

(v) Judges of the Supreme Court and State High Courts are also removed by both the Houses. In this .respect also the powers of both the Houses are equal.

In two matters the powers of the Rajya Sabha are exclusive. They are:
1. Under Article 249, the Rajya Sabha can pass a resolution by 2/3rd majority of its members present and voting that an item given on the State List has become of national importance, therefore, Parliament should make law on that. On the passing of such a resolution, it becomes lawful for Parliament to make laws with respect to that matter for the whole or any part of India for a period of one year.

2. The second exclusive power of the Rajya Sabha. is connected with the setting up of All India Services. Under Article 312, the Rajya Sabha by passing a resolution by two-thirds majority of the members present and voting can set up All India Service.

From the above discussion it is clear that the Lok Sabha is more powerful than the Rajya Sabha. And he who holds the purse, holds the power. Likewise, the Council of Ministers can be removed from office by the Lok Sabha only. The Lok Sabha is thus the King- maker. It was the intention of the makers of the costitution to make the Lok Sabha more powerful than the Rajya Sabha because it is in accordance with the theory and practice of Parliamentary system of Government.

Question 2.
Discuss the powers and functions of Indian Parliament.
Or
Discuss financial and judicial functions of Parliament.
Answer:
The Indian Parliament has been given several types of powers. The powers of Parliament include law-making or legislation, financial, executive and judicial powers.
1. Legislative Powers:
The Parliament has the right to frame laws for the whole of the country. It can frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the Union list and concurrent list. Under certain special circumstances the Parliament gets the right to frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the State list. The Parliament frames laws on State subjects for union territories. The Rajya Sabha can transfer a State subject in favour of the centre for the purpose of making laws.

In case of the proclamation of emergency by the President, the Parliament can legislate on State subjects. The Residuary powers are under the control of the central government and so Parliament frames laws on all the residuary subjects. The bill is sent to the President after it is passed by both the Houses. Excepting the money bills he can give his assent and make use of his veto powers. If the Parliament passes that bill for second time then the President is bound to give his assent to that bill.

2. Financial Powers:
The Parliament controls the finances of the State. The government places the budget before the start of the financial year. The Parliament discusses the budget and gives its assent to the bill. The government can neither impose any tax upon the public nor can it spend the money without the approval of the Parliament. The President will have to give his assent to the money bill passed by the Parliament.

3. Control over the Executive:
The Parliament controls the Executive in the following ways:
(i) The Prime Minister and the other ministers are taken from the Parliament and after becoming ministers, they remain the members of the Parliament. They participate in the meetings of the Parliament.

(ii) The ministers are responsible to the Parliament for their actions and policies.

(iii) The members of the Parliament can ask the ministers questions regarding the functioning of the administration. The ministers are to give a satisfactory reply to all these questions.

(iv) The members of the Parliament by introducing ‘Adjournment Motion’ can invite the attention of the government to a serious problem or event.

(v) During discusion on budget the members of the Parliament discuss the working of different departments of the government and criticise the policies of the government.

(vi) The Cabinet continues to remain in office according to the wishes of the Lok Sabha. It can seek the removal of the Cabinet by passing a no-confidence motion against or by rejecting an important government bill or by passing a resolution for reducing the salary of a particular minister.

4. Judicial Powers:
The Parliament exercises some judicial powers also:

The Parliament can remove the President from office through impeachment.
The Parliament can also remove the Vice-President from office.
The Parliament can remove the judges of the High Court and Supreme Court by passing a resolution to that effect.

5. Electoral Powers:

The elected members of the parliament participate in the election of the President.
The Vice President is elected by the members of both the Houses of the Parliament.

6. Amendment of the Constitution:
It is the Parliament which can initiate a resolution for the amendment of the Constitution. Some provisions of the Constitution can be amended only by the Parliament. In some important matters the amendment proposals after being passed by the Parliament are to be sent for the approval of legislatures of the States. The States cannot introduce a resolution of amendment of the Constitution.

Position of the Parliament:
The Indian Parliament enjoys vast powers and it is a very important insitution. It represents the entire nation. The Laws framed by it are enforced in the whole of the State. But the Indian Parliament is not a supreme and sovereign body.The Indian Parliament is less powerful than the British Parliament. The sovereignty of the British Parliament is a well known fact.

The British Parliament can make, repeal, amend and abolish, any law it likes. But the Indian Parliament cannot make all the laws it likes. The reason for this is that in England there is unitary type of government and all powers are with the Centre, but in Indian there is a federal type of government and the powers have been distributed between ttie Centre and the States. Indian Parliament cannot be called a Supreme and sovereign body due to reasons given ahead:

The powers in India are distributed between the Centre and the State and the Parliament cannot frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the State list during peace time.
The Parliament cannot make any law which violates the fundamental rights of the people?
The Parliament cannot amend the Constitution independently.
The Constitution is considered the supreme law of the land. The Parliament can do nothing against it.
The judiciary has the power of Judicial review over the laws framed by the Parliament. The Supreme Court of India can declare a law null and void if it is against the provisions of the Constitution.

Question 3.
Discuss the composition, functions and powers of Rajya Sabha in India.
Answer:
The legislative powers of the Union have been vested in the parliament. The Parliament consists of two Houses-the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha.
The members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people. Hence, it is a national House or the popular House. The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States. Hence its name is the Council of States.

Composition:
According to the constitution the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha has been put at 250 members. Out of 250 members 12 members are nominated by the President. These members shall consist of persons having special knowledge of practical experience in literature, science, art and social service. The remaining 238 members represent the States and the Union Territories.

The representatives of the States are elected by the Elected members of their Legislative Assemblies in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. The method of election is, accordingly, indirect. In the case of Union Territories members are chosen in such a manner as Parliament may by law determine.

Though the Indian Constitution establishes a federal polity, yet the federating units (State) have not been given equal representation in the Rajya Sabha, Representation of the States is on the basis of population. At present the Rajya Sabha has 245 mambers. Out of 245 members, 233 members represent the States and Union Territories and the remaining 12 members have been nominated by the president.

Term:
Like the Senate of the U.S.A.; the Rajya Sabha is a permanent House. It is not subject to dissolution. Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected for six years, one-third members retiring after every two years.

Qualifications for the members of the Rajya Sabha. A candidate for election to the Rajya Sabha must possess the following qualifications:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed 30 years of age.
He must be a parliamentary elector in the State from which he is seeking election and must have been residing in the state for the last six months.
He must possess such other qualifications as parliament may by law prescribe.
He must make and subscribe before some person authorised on that behalf by the Election Commission an oath or affirmation asserting his allegiance to the Constitution of India.

Disqualification for Membership:
A person is disqualified from being chosen a member of the Rajya Sabha if he holds any office of profit under the Government of India or any State Government, or if he is of unsound mind, or if he is an undischarged insolvent, or if he has ceased to be a citizen of India or has voluntarily acquired citizenship of a foreign State, or acknowledged allegiance to a foreign State, or if he is so disqualified under any law made by the Parliament.

A person cannot be a member of both the Houses simultaneously. Nor can he be a member of the Rajya Sabha and a State legislature at the same time. If he incurs any disqualification even after his election, he will have to vacate his seat.

Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sahha:
Like the Vice President of U.S.A., the Indian Vice-President is also the ex- officio Chairman of the Upper House. At present Sh. Venkaiah Naidu is the Chairman of Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha elects a Deputy Chairman from among its own members and he presides in the absence of the Chairman or during the period when the Vice-President is discharging the function of the President. The Deputy Chairman is a member of the Rajya Sabha and he is to vacate the office if he ceases to be its member. On 9th August, 2018 Sh. Harivansh Narayan Singh, candidate of N.D.A. was elected as the Vice-Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

Quorum:
According to 42nd Amendment until parliament by law otherwise provides the quorum to constitute a meeting of either House of Parliamnet is one-tenth of the total number of members of the House. If at any time during a meeting of a House there is no quorum, it is the duty of the Chairman either to adjourn the House or to suspend the meeting until there is a quorum.

Powers And Functions Of The Rajya Sabha:
The Rajya Sabha performs a variety of functions. They may be discussed under the following heads:
1. Legislative Powers:
The Rajya Sabha is an integral part of the Indian Parliament. Since the main responsibility of the Parliament is to make laws, hence the Rajya Sabha takes part in the making of laws. Except Money Bills, all bills can originate in the Rajya Sabha. No Bill can become a law unless agreed to by both the Houses. The Lok Sabha by itself cannot pass a Bill and send it to the President for his assent.

In case of disagreement between the two Houses on a Bill or on the amendments made in the Bill, the President has been empowered to summon a joint meeting of the two Houses for the purpose of deliberating and voting on the Bill; At a joint sitting questions are decided by a majority of the members of both houses present and voting. A decision taken at a joint sitting shall mean the decision of both Houses. At the time of the joint sitting the Speaker of the Lok Sabha presides.

The President can also summon the joint sitting when a Bill passed by one House is not considered by the other House for six months. For the purpose of summoning the joint sitting it does not matter whether the Bill was introduced first in the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha.

2. Financial Powers:
In financial matters, it is the Lok Sabha which enjoys a pre-eminent position. The Rajya Sabha has not been given any susbstantial power with regard to finance. No Money Bill or Financial Bill can first be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. It is the privilege of the Lok Sabha to pass the Money Bill first and send it to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendation. It should be noted that the Bill is transmitted to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendation and not for its aproval. In America, the Money Bill must be approved by the Senate. It is not so in India.

The Rajya Sabha can make amendments in the Money Bill, it may even rejected the Money Bill. It has no effect on the Bill. The Lok Sabha is not bound to accept the recommendations made by the Rajya Sabha. In case the Lok Sabha rejects the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha, the Bill is deemed to have been pased by both Houses in the form in which it was passed by the Lok Sabha. Likewise if the Rajya Sabha does not return the Money Bill to the Lok Sabha within 14 days, it will be considered to have been passed by both Houses in the form in which it was passed by the Lok Sabha. Thus, the Lok Sabha possesses complete control over the purse of the nation.

3. Control over Executive:
The Rajya Sabha does not control Excecutive as the Constitution makes the Council of Ministers collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. But this does not mean that the Rajya Sabha can exert no influence over the Executive. Some of the Ministers are taken from the Rajya Sabha. The members of the Rajya Sabha have the right to ask questions and supplementary questions from the Ministers. They can elicit information about the actions of Government and can move resolutions impressing on the Government the desirability of pursuing a particular line of policy.

As said, the Council of Ministers can be ousted from office by the Lok Sabha only. The Rajya Sabha can condemn the Government but it cannot kick the Government out of office.

4. Judicial Powers:
Like the Upper Houses in other countries, the Rajya Sabha has also been vested with some judicial functions. The President can be removed from office by the process of impeachment. A resolution to impeach the President may be moved in any House of Parliament. Such a resolution has to be pased by both the Houses separately by at least 2/3rd majority of the total membership of the house. Clearly, the Rajya Sabha enjoys co-equal powers with the Lok Sabha in the process of impeachment of the President.

In the removal of the Vice-Presidnet, a resolution to that effect can be moved in the Rajya Sabha only. But the Lok Sabha must agree with that resolution if the Vice-President is to be removed from the office. Likewise, it has identical powers with the Lok Sabha in the matter of removal of a judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court.

5. Constituent Powers:
The Rajya Sabha exercises constituent functions along with the Lok Sabha. A Bill to amend the Constitution may originate in either House of Parliament. And the Bill amending the Csonstitution is required to be pased in each House by a majority of its total membership and by a majority of two-third of its members present and voting. The Cosntitution is silent on how to resolve a dead-lock between the two . Houses.

6. Miscellaneous Powers:
The miscellaneous functions of the Rajya Sabha are:
(i) The elected members of the Rajya Sabha take part in the election of the President.

(ii) All the members (elected and nominated both) of the Rajya Sabha take part in the election of the Vice-President.

(iii) The reports of all the Commissions appointed by the President are considered both by the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha.

(iv) The approval of the Rajya Sabha is necessary for the continuance of the proclamation of emergency.

(v) Every order made by the president suspending the enformcement of Fundamental Rights is required to be laid before each House of Parliament.

(vi) Agreement of the Rajya Sabha is necessary if action is to be taken against the Chief Election Commissioner, Comptroller General and the members of the Union Public Service Commission.

(vii) In granting amnesty, the Rajya Sabha has equal power with the Lok Sabha. Special Powers of the Rajya Sabha. Under the constitution, the Rajya Sabha has been vested with two special and exclusive powers. They are:
1. Under Article 249 the Rayja Sabha may declare by resolution, passed by two-third majority of its members present and voting, that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest that Parliament should make laws with respect to any matter enumerated in the State List.

2. Under Article 312 of the Constitution, the Rajya Sabha is empowered to create one or more All-India Services, if the house passes a resolution by not less than two-thirds of the memebrs present and voting that it is neccessary or expedient in the national interest to do so.

Position of the Rajya Sahha:
After having an anylysis of the powers of the Rajya Sabha, it becomes clear that the makers of the Constitution intended it to be less powerful and influential than the Lok Sabha. In matters of ordinary legislation, it cannot prove to be an obstacle in the way of the Lok Sabha because of its half of strength of the Lok Sabha. At the most it can delay an oridnary bill for six months. It has absolutely no control over the purse of the nation.

Money Bills first originate in the Lok Sabha and then are transmitted to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendations. The Lok Sabha may not agree with the recommendations made by the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha can delay a Money Bill for 14 days only. There can be no joint sitting of the two Houses in case of disagreement on a Money Bill. Then the privilege to remove the Government from office belongs to the Lok Sabha only. The Rajya Sabha can denounce the Government but it cannot dislodge the Government. In certain repsects it is weaker than the House of Lords even. In the opinion of certain critics, the Rajya Sabha is only a Secondary Chamber.

All this, however, is not to suggest that the Rajya Sabha is only an appendage of the Lok Sabha. It is definitely more powerful than the British House of Lords and the Senate of Canada. While in certain matters it has co-equal powers with the Lok Sabha, in two cases it has exclusive powers as well. It has reacted very strongly whenever the Lok Sabha made an attack upon its privileges. In 1954, much excitement was caused in the Rajya Sabha by an alleged observation made in the Lok Sabha by N.C. Chatterjee that “The Upper House, which is suposed to be a body of elders, seems to be behaving irresponsibly like a pack of urchins.”

According to Morris Jones, “It has three outweighing merits, it supplies additional political positions for which there is demand, it provides some additonal debating opportunities for which there is occasional need and it assists in the solution of legislative limited problems.”

Question 4.
Describe the composition and powers of the Lok Sabha. Is there any limitation to its authority?
Or
Discuss the Composition and Functions of Lok Sabha.
Answer:
Lok Sabha is the Lower House of Parliament. It is a popular House because it represents the nation at large. It is not only popular but a powerful House as well. It is the pivot of all political activities.

Composition:
Accroding to the 31st Amendment, the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha has been put at 547 members. But accroding to Goa, Daman and Diu Reorganisation Act 1987 maximum elected memebrs of the Lok Sabha can be 550. The President can appoint two Anglo-IndiAnswer: At present Lok Sabha consists of 543 members. 530 members are elected members from the States and the Union Territories and two are nominated by the President.

Election:
The members of the Lok Sabha are elected directly by the people. Every citizen of India of not less than 18 years has the right to vote provided, of course, he or she is not otherwise disqualified on grounds of unsoundness of mind, crime or corrupt or illegal practice. The voting is by secret ballot. Normally one member represents a population between 5 to 7 1/2 lakhs. As per Constitution, there shall be allotted to each State a number of seats in Lok Sabha in such a manner that the ratio between the population of the State as far as practicable, is same for all the Staes.

Each State shall be devided into territorial Constituencies in such a manner that the ratio between the population of each constituency and number of seats allotted to it, as far as practicable, is the same throughout the State. Though the system of separate communal electorate has been abolished yet the Constitution reserves certain seats for Scheduled Castes and Schedules Tribes. This reservation shall be vaild till 2020 because the term has been extended by amending the Constitution.

Term:
The life of the Lok Sabha is five years. All the members are chosen at one and at the same time. Unlike the election to the Rajya Sabha where l/3rd members retire every two years, all the members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a period of five years. However, the President can dissolve the Lok Sabha even before the expiry of its term, i.e. five years. On 26th April, 1999 the President dissolved the Lok Sabha on the advice of Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee. Thus the tenure of 12th Lok Sabha was 13 months only.

Qualification:
To be qualified for election to the Lok Sabha, a person must possess the following qualifications:
1. He must be a citizen of India.

2. He must have completed 25 years of age.

3. He must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State.

4. He must possess such other qualifications as may be prescribed by the Parliament.

5. No person can be a member of both Houses of Parliament. In case he becomes, he must vacate one of the two seats. Likewise, one person cannot be a member of a House of Parliament and of a State Lsegislature simultaneously.

6. A person shall be disqualified for being chosen as, and for being, a member of either House of Parliament if he is of unsound mind and stands so declared by a competent court: if he is an undischarged insolvent; if he is not a citizen of India or has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of a foreign State or is under an acknowledgement of allegiance or adherence to a foreign State or if he is so disqualified by or under any law made by Parliament.

Quorum:
For a meeting of the Lok Sabha the presence of at least 1/lQth of its total members is essential. If at any time during meeting of a House there is no quorum, it is the duty of the Chairman either to adjourn the House or to suspend the meeting until there is a quorum.

Speaker:
The speaker is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha. He is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from among themselves. The Speaker presides over the meetings of the House; maintains order in the House and conducts the business of the House in accordance with the Rules of the House. The Constitution also provides for the office of the Deputy Speaker. He too is the member of the House and is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from among themselves. The Deputy Speaker performs the duties of the speaker when the latter is absent or while the office of the Speaker is vacant.

Privileges:
Members of the Lok Sabha enjoy certain privileges:

Members have full freedom of speech in the House. No case can be started against a member for a speech given in the House.
Members cannot be arrested in any civil suit before 40 days of the beginning of the session.
During the session, members can be arrested in criminal cases only but information must be given to the speaker.
Members get a monthly salary and many other allowances.

Powers Of The Lok Sabha:
1. Legislative Powers:
Any type of bill can be introduced in the Lok Sabha. Laws in it, can be framed on any subject given on the Union list and the concurrent list. The Rajya Sabha can transfer any subject on the State List by passing a resolution in favour of the Centre and Lok Sabha can pass a law on the subject. Rajya Sabha can transfer a subject only in case of national importance. After the bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha and it can delay the bill at the most for 6 months.

If the Rajya Sabha rejects the bill or does not take any action over it for a period of six months, a joint session of the two Houses of the Parliament is called and the majority vote decides the bill. As the number of the members of the Lok Sabha is larger than that of the Rajya Sabha, so the Lok Sabha can get the bills passed according to its own wishes.

2. Financial Powers:
The Lok Sabha controls the finances of the State. A money bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and not in the Rajya Sabha. If there is a difference of opinion whether a particular bill is a money bill or a non-money bill, the decision of the speaker of the Lok Sabha will be final. After a money bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha can delay the passage of a money bill at the most for 14 days. The Rajya Sabha may reject the bill or may not take any action over the bill for a period of 14 days, in both these conditions the bill will be considered as passed. It will be sent to the President and he gives his assent to the bill. The President cannot use his veto power in case of money bill.

3. Control over the executive:
It is the Lok Sabha which controls the executive. The leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha is the Prime Minister of the country. Most of the ministers are also taken from the Lok Sabha. The Cabinet is responsible to the Lok Sabha for all its actions and policies. The members of the Lok Sabha ask the ministers questions and supplementary questions and they are to answer these questions. The members of the Lok Sabha can criticise the functiuoning of the Cabinet. If the Lok Sabha passes a vote of no-confidence against the Cabinet, the Cabinet will have to resign. The Cabinet remains in office so long as it is supported by the majority of the members of the House.

4. Judicial Powers:
The Lok Sabha can start impeachment proceedings against the President of India. It investigates into the charges levelled against the Vice-President and gives its decision. It along with the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution for the removal of the judges from the High Court or the Supreme Court.

5. Electoral Functions:
The Lok Sabha participates in the election of the President. It has also the right to participate in the election of the Vice-President. The Lok Sabha elects a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker from amongst its members.

6. Amendment in the Constitution:
The resolution for amending the Constitution can be introduced in the Lok Sabha. In this field it enjoys equal powers with the Rajya Sabha.

Position Of The Lok Sabha:
Lok Sabha is the lower Chamber of the Parliament. Almost all its members are elected by the people. This Chamber is more important than the Rajya Sabha because it represents the nation. The Lok Sabha controls the ordinary and the money bills. No bill can be passed against the wishes of the Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha has also control over the Cabinet. The Lok Sabha can remove the Cabinet by passing a vote of no-confidence’ or by rejecting the budget. The Lok Sabha is the most powerful, influential and an important part of the Parliament. In fact it is the Lok Sabha which exercises all the powers of the Parliament.

Question 5.
Discuss the election, powers and functions of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
Or
Discuss the functions of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
Or
Write a short note on the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
The Lok Sabha is presided over by the Speaker who is elected by the House from among its own members. The Speaker’s office is one of much dignity, honor and power. He enjoys supreme authority on the floor of the House. In order of precedence of the state, he ranks seventh and enjoys a status equal to that of the Chief Justice of India. In the absence of the Speaker or when the office of the Speaker is vacant the Deputy Speaker discharges the functions of the Speaker.

Election:
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha. The Speaker must necessarily be a member of the Lok Sabha. The primary function of the newly-elected Lok Sabha is to elect a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker. The Speaker is elected by a simple majority which in reality means, by the party in power. But in practice Prime Minister, after consultations with the leaders of the opposition parties, decides a name for speakership.

Generally the speaker is taken from the ruling party while deputy speaker is taken from the opposition parties. On 22nd Oct, 1999, Mr. Ganti Mohan Chandra Balayogi of the Telugu Desam party backed by BJP and its allies was elected the speaker of Lok Sabha unanimously. On 19th June 2019. Sh. Om Birla, a senior leader of B.J.P. was elected the speaker of Lok Sabha unanimously.

Term of Office:
Normally, the Speaker is elected for a period of five years. However, he continues in office until a new Speaker is elected by the new House. The Speaker does not vacate his office even when the House is dissolved. The Speaker has to vacate his office if he ceases to be a member of the House. He can be elected to this office for the second time also. The Speaker can resign his office at any time. He can also be removed from his office by a resolution passed by a majority of all members on the roll of the Lok Sabha.

Fourteen days’ notice for moving such a resolution is required to be given. The Speaker cannot preside over a meeting of the House when the House is considering the resolution of his removal. He has, however, the right to sit in the House and defend himself. He has the right to vote also.

Salary and Allowances:
The salary and allowances of the Speaker are determined by the Parliament, and these are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India. These cannot be varied to his disadvantage during his term of office.

Powers and Functions of the Speaker:
The Speaker performs various functions and enjoys wide powers drawn partly from the Constitution and partly from the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Parliament, 1950: Following are the functions of the Speaker:

1. In consultation with the Leader of the House, he determines the order of business and the time to be allotted to the debates on the address of the President. He also prescribes the form in which amendments may be moved-to the motion of thanks to the address of the President.

2. He allows members to ask questions. He has also the power to disallow questions in case they are not in conformity with the Rules of the House.

3. Adjournment motions are moved with his consent. He also prescribes the time-limit for speeches on the motion.

4. The Speaker may allow the publication of a Bill in the Gazette of India upon a request from a member initiating the Bill even before the motion for leave to introduce the Bill has been made. In such a case it does not remain necessary to ask for leave of the House to introduce the Bill.

5. His consent is necessary for a motion to adjourn the debate on a bill.

6. He appoints the Chairman of the Select Committees. He himself is ex-officer Chairman of some vital Committees, such as Rules Committee, the Business Advisory Committee and the General Purpose Committee.

7. He allots time for the discussion on Budget.

8. He is the channel of communication between the President and the Parliament.

9. He decides about the admissibility of a motion in the House.

10. No member can address the House without his permission. He is also to see that no member makes an irrelevant speech and thereby wastes the time of the House.

11. All members have to address the chair, they cannot address each other.

12. If any member raises any point of order, it is for the Speaker to give his own ruling and his ruling is final and binding on all. No member can challenge his ruling.

13. He preserves order in the House. If the situation goes out of control he can adjourn or suspend the meeting of the House.

14. In case he finds the conduct of a member disorderly, he can order him to leave the House.

15. If a member disregards his authority in spite of warning, he can name him for suspension. In case a member does not leave the
House on the order of the Speaker, the Speaker can ask the Watch and Ward Staff to lift him bodily and remove him from the House.

16. He exercises control over the Visitors Gallery. It is he who regulates the admission of outsiders into the House. He can ask them to leave the House.

17. He puts questions to vote and announces the results.

18. He can order the expunging of a word or words used in debate from the proceedings of the House.

19. The Speaker conducts the business of the House. However, he cannot preside over the meeting of the House when the House is considering the resolution of the removal of the Speaker from office. But he has the right to sit, take part in the proceedings and defend himself. He has the right to vote also but he has no casting vote then.

20. Business of the Lok Sabha is valid only when the quorum of the House is complete. It is for the Speaker to see whether quorum is complete or not. If he finds that there is no quorum, he can suspend the business of the House till the required quorum is complete.

21. The Speaker is the guardian of the privileges of the members of Lok Sabha. He can insist that action must be taken against any one guilty of violating the privileges of the members of the House.

22. The Speaker is the custodian of the dignity of the House.

23. Before sending a Bill to Rajya Sabha or the President, he signs the Bill as a token of having been passed by the Lok Sabha.

24. It is for the Speaker to certify whether a particular Bill is a money-bill or not and his certificate is final on the point.

25. The Speaker has no right to vote in the first instance but he has the right to vote in case of a tie.

26. When the Speaker rises, others must sit down and must not leave when he addresses the House.

27. In case of a joint meeting of both the Houses on a disputed Bill, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha presides.

28. The Speaker represents the House and not the Government. For him the humblest back-bencher is no less than a Member and the greatest Minister is no more than a Member. He protects the members from the high-handedness of the Government. The Speaker can pull the Ministers up whenever answers given by them are not clear, adequate or deliberately postponed for no valid reason.

29. The Speaker also performs some important administrative functions. The Secretariat Staff of the Lok Sabha works directly under him.

Position of the Speaker:
The office of the Speaker is one of honour, dignity and authority. He presides over a House which is the pivot of all political activity. He symbolises the House and his authority. In the words of G. V. Mavlankar, “He is supreme in the House.” According to former Speaker Shri Hukam Singh, “Speaker is one of the highest offices in the land.” Shri L. K. Advani said in March 1977 that the Speaker or Chairman is an institution by himself.

In the Order of Precedence he is placed seventh and is bracketed with the Chief Justice of India. He interprets the Rules of the House and his ruling is final. Till today, the office of the Speaker has been occupied by very capable and illustrious personalities. They have enhanced the prestige of the Office. Shri G. V. Mavlankar was the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

According to late Pandit Nehru, “The Speaker represents the House, the freedom of the House, and because the House represents the nation, in a particular way, the Speaker becomes the symbol of the nation’s freedom and liberty. Therefore, it is right that his should be an honoured positon; a free position and should be occupied always by men of outstanding ability and impartiality.”

Question 6.
What are the different stages through which the budget passes? Discuss.
Or
Discuss the financial procedure allowed in the Indian Parliament.
Answer:
The Budget is known as the Annual Financial Statement. The Constitution provides that the President shall, in respect of every financial year, cause to be laid before both the Houses of Parliament a statement of the estimated receipts and expenditures of the Government of India for that year. “The President gets the Budget presented through the Finance Minister. The Budget shows the estimated receipts and expenditure for the ensuing year and is, thus the most important financial document.

In India the Budget is presented to the Parliament in two parts ; the Railway Budget and the General Budget. The Railway Budget deals exclusively with the income and expenditure relating to Railways. It is presented to Parliament by the Minister for Railways. The General Budget deals with the estimate of revenues and expenditure relating to all other Union Ministers and is presented by the Finance Minister. The two Budgets, however, are similar in form and are passed in the same manner.

The General Budget consists of the two parts-one of dealing with the expenditure and the other with the income side of the Union finances. The expenditure embodied in this Budget is divided into two parts:

Expenditure charged on the Consolidated Fund of India and
Other Expenditure. The expenditure charged on the Consolidated Fund of India is non-volatile. Either House of Parliament can discuss it but not vote on it.

The other expenditure is submitted in the form of demand for grants to the Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha may assent or refuse to assent any demand or suggest reduction of the amount specified therein. It is voteable. The Lok Sabha cannot, however, suggest increase in the demand for grants. It is so because no demand for grant can be made except on the recommendation of the President.

Stages in Financial Legislation:
The Budget is presented to the Lok Sabha with the Budget Speech of the Finance Minister. The Budget Speech is one of the most important speeches made in Parliament. In his speech, the Finance Minister sums up the general positon of the country and outlines the economic and fiscal policy of the Government for the ensuing year.

Like ordinary bills, the Budget has also to pass through five stages. They are
1. introduction or presentation,
2. general discussion,
3. voting of demands,
4. consideration and passing of the Appropriation Bill and
5. consideraton and passing of the taxation proposals embodied in the Finance Bill.

1. Introduction of Budget in the Parliament:
It is the constitutional duty of the President to get the Budget prepared and cause to be laid before Parliament. The Budget is presented to the Lok Sabha by the Finance Minister with a speech known as the Budget Speech. The Budget Speech is a survey of the financial position of the country and the economic policy of the Government for the ensuing year. The copies of the Budget, thereafter, are printed and circulated amongst members. The Budget contains the estimates of receipt and expenditure. There can be no discussion on the Budget the day it is presented.

2. General Discussion on the Budget:
After the presentation of the Budget, its printed copies are circulated among members. Generally after three days a general discussion on the Budget is held. The general debate on the Budget is spread over three or four days. It is customary that the leaders of the Opposition initiate the discussion.

But at this stage the Houses discuss the Budget as a whole and any question of principle involved in it. No discussion of details is in order and no cut motions are allowed at this stage This stage also provides an opportunity for the discussion of the non-votage expenditure” charged on the Consolidated Fund of India.”

The debate offers an occasion for a general service of the administration and for ventilation of grievances. In the words of Morris-Jones: “It is an occasion on which each House is able to express its mood and the Government may learn how a particular proposal will be received in the subsequent stage.” This stage is, thus, an expression of the mood of the House. No vote is taken at this stage.

3. Voting of DemandL:
After the completion of general discussion on the Budget, the way is clear for the business of voting the grants. The voting of demands or grants is the exclusive privilege of the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha has no share in it. The ‘demands’ are related to the ‘expenditure’ part of the Budget. They are in the nature of requests made by the Executive to the Lok Sabha for grant of outhority to spend the amounts asked for in order to run the administration.

Lok Sabha has the following powers in respect of each demand:

to assent to the i demand; or
to refuse it; or
to reduce it.

The Lok Sabha has no power to increase a demand because no demand for grant can be moved except on the i recommendation of the President.

4. Appropriation Bill:
When all demands for grants have been voted by the Lok Sabha, they are put together and along with charges of the Consolidated fund,
incorporated into what is known as the Appropriation Bill. The Appropriation bill is presented to the Lok Sabha and is passed in the same manner as any other Bill. The debate on the Bill is restricted to those points only which have not been discussed during the debates on estimates. No amendments to the grants as voted by the Lok Sabha previously or to the charges on the Consolidated Fund are followed. The allotment of time for the different stages of the Bill is determined by ! the Speaker. It does not take long for the Lok Sabha to pass the Appropriation Bin.

When the Appropriation Bill has been pssed by the Lok Sabha, it is certified by the Speaker as a Money Bill and is transmitted to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendations. It is open to the Lok Sabha to accept or reject the recommendation made by the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha has to return the ‘ Money Bill, with or without amendment, within 14 days of the receipt of the Bill.

In case the Lok Sabha does not agree with the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha or if the Rajya Sabha does not return the Bill within 14 days, it is deemed to have been passed by both the Houses in the form in which it was passed by the Lok Sabha. It is then sent to the President for his assent. The President must give his assent to the Money Bill. He can neither withhold his assent nor can he send the Bill back for reconsideration. The Appropriation Act authorises the Government to spend money as authorised in the Act. Without such an authority the Government cannot incur an expenditure.

5. Finance Bill:
A Finance Bill is that which embodies all the taxation proposals of the Government for the ensuring year. While the Appropriation Act authorises the Government to spend money as authorised in the Act, the Finance Bill deals with the legislation which authorises the raising of Funds through taxation as embodied in the financial proposals of the year. The Finance Bill has to go through three readings and the procedure followed is that of a Money Bill. The discussion of the Finance pill in the second reading is confined to general principles.

It is only in the Select Committee that the Bill is considered in details and amendments are moved. Clause by clause consideration of the Bill follows after the presentation of the Committee Report. There is one important difference between the Report Stage of Finance Bill and that of the Appropriation Bill. In the case of Appropriation Bill, no amendments can be moved. In that of the Finance Bill amendments seeking to reject or reduce a tax can be moved. Sometimes the Cabinet voluntarily agrees with the opposition in the reduction of a tax. But if a cut motion is carried against the opposition of the Government, it means a lack of confidence in the Government. In that case the Government has to resign.

As soon as the Finance Bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is certified by the Speaker as Money Bill and is sent to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendations. The Rajya Sabha has to return the Finance Bill, with or without recommendations within 14 days. The Lok Sabha may or may not agree with the recommendations made by the Rajya Sabha. After the expiry of 14 days the Finance Bill is sent to the President for his assent. He cannot refuse his assent.

Question 7.
How does a bill become an Act in the Indian Parliament?
Or
Describe the various stages through which the budget passes. Discuss.
Answer:
What is a Bill? The Parliament frames laws for the country. Any member of the House can introduce a resolution for the purpose of making a law. That resolution is to be introduced in the House in a special form and the resolution which is placed before the House in a special form is called a bill. Hence, the resolutions which are introduced in the Parliament for the purpose of making laws or changing old laws or amending the Constitution are called bills. The bill is passed by both the Houses and then it is sent to the President for his assent, and then it becomes a law. But before the Bill becomes a law, it is to pass through so many stages.

Kinds of Bill:
The Constitution divides Bills into two categories i.e., Money Bills and Non- Money Bills. The bills which are introduced in the Parliament by the ministers are called government bills. The bills which are introduced in the House by ordinary members of the House are called Private Members’ bills. Government bills are of two types, money bills and ordinary bills. A money bill is concerned with the imposition of taxes and the expenditure of amount thus collected.

The bill is to pass through so many stages before it becomes a law. The bill is discussed and debated thoroughly in these stages. These stages are mentioned as follows:
1. Introduction of the Bill:
An ordinary bill can be introduced in any House and by any member of the House. But a member can introduce the bill in the same House of which he is a member. The mover of the bill is to give a notice to this effect a month earlier. The admission of the notice brings a particular bill in the agenda or ‘the order of the day’.

There is no need for the ministers to give a month’s notice for the purpose. The agenda of the House or the programme of the House is prepared by the Cabinet and they can fix the date of the introduction of their bills. Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and not in the Rajya Sabha. Money Bills can only be introduced by the ministers and not by the ordinary members of the House.

On the fixed date the mover of the bills seeks the permission of the House for moving the bill and it is very much a formality. On getting the permission of the House he only reads the title of the bill. After this he gives a copy of the bill to the clerk of the House. It is called the introduction of the bill. The bill is sent to the Gazette of India for publication and its copies are distributed among the members of the House. The government bills can be published in the Government Gazette even without introducing them in the House and this method has been generally adopted.

2. First Reading:
After the introduction there is a first reading of the bill. Sometimes there is a first reading of the bill just after the introductory stage. Sometimes another date is fixed for the first reading of the bill. On the fixed date the mover of the bill stands up at his place and requests that the bill should be read for the first time. On getting permission of the House he explains the main principles and objectes of the bill.

After this other members of the House express their opinions in favour of and against the bill. The bill at this stage is not debated and discussed in detail, only the objects and the main principles involved are discussed. Then the mover of the bill puts a resolution that the bill be sent to a Select Committee. Three decisions can be taken on such a resolution:

The bill should be sent to a Select Committee for giving its report on the bill.
The bill should be sent to the press and states for propaganda and public opinion should be elicited. The people send their views in favour or against the bill to the Parliament.
If the majority is opposed to the bill, it is dropped. Most of the bills of private members are rejected at this stage, if they are not supported by the Cabinet.

3. Select Committee:
If the bill is not rejected in the first reading, it is sent to a Select Committee. The committee consists of 20 to 30 members which are taken from among members of the House. The bill which is published for eliciting public opinion is also sent to the Select Committee. The members of the Select Committee discuss the bill in detail and debate the merits and demerits of the bill. The Committee can suggest amendments in the provisions of clauses of the bill.

After discussing the bill thoroughly the committee prepares its report in favour of or against the bill or suggests some amendments in the bill. While preparing the report the committee takes into consideration public opinion also. Then the committee sends its report to the House.

4. Second Reading:
A day is fixed for discussing the report of the Select Committee on the bill. The mover of the bill on the fixed date requests the House that the report of the Select Committee on the bill may be discussed. The House discusses the bill in detail. The bill is discussed clause by clause and item by item. The views of the Select Committee on all clauses are discussed. The members of the Houses can suggest amendments in the bill. After the bill is seriously discussed the opinion of the House is sought on each clause and amendment proposals are also put to vote. The bill is passed according to the viewpoint of the majority of the members. This stage is very important in the passage of the bill.

5. Third Reading:
After the bill is passed in the second reading, another date is fixed for the third reading of the bill. This is the last stage in the passage of the bill. Like the first stage there is not much of discussion on the bill at this stage also. There is a little chance of the rejection of the bill at this stage. At this stage the proposals for amending the bill cannot be moved. Only proposals for change in the working of the bill can be given. The entire bill is put to vote at this stage and it is either rejected or passed.

Bill in the Second House:
After the bill is passed by one House, it is sent to the second House. It is to pass through all the stages in this House. After the ordinary bill is passed by both the Houses it is sent to the President for his assent. If the two houses differ over a particular bill, a joint meeting of the two Houses is called for and the bill is placed before it. The joint meeting of the two Houses decides the fate of the bill by a majority vote. As the Lok Sabha is a larger body compared with the Rajya Sabha, hence the bill is passed according to the wishes of the Lok Sabha.

The Rajya Sabha can delay the passage of a money bill at the most for 14 days. If the Rajya Sabha rejects the money bill or does not take any action for 14 days, under both these conditions the money bill is considered passed.

Assent of the President. After the bill is passed by both the Houses, it is sent to the President for his assent. The President cannot refuse to give his assent to the money bill. In case of ordinary bill the President can make use of his veto power, that means that the President can refuse to give his assent to the ordinary bills.

However, the President may return a Bill to the Parliament. If the Parliament passes such a bill again, the President cannot withhold his assent to such a bill. The bill becomes an Act when the President gives his assent to it. It can be enforced after the President’s assent has been taken. It is published in the Government Gazette.

Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Explain in brief the composition of the Union Legislature or Parliament.
Answer:
The Union Legislature or the Parliament of India is a bi-cameral legislature. According to Article 79 of the Constitution, there shall be Parliament for the Union which shall consist of President and two houses respectively, known as the Council of the States and the House of the People. Council of the States or the Rajya Sabha is the Upper House of the Parliament.

It can have at the most 250 members in it. This is a permanent house. 1/3 of its members retire after every two years. Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Parliament. It can have at the most 550 elected members. The members of the Lok Sabha are elected for 5 years. The President of India can dissolve the Lok Sabha on the advice of Council of Ministers before the expiry of its term.

Question 2.
Discuss any four features of Indian Parliament.
Answer:

Indian Parliament is Bi-cameral.
Upper House of the Parliament is permanent.
Lower house of the Parliament can be dissolved before its expiry term.
The membership of both the houses is not equal.

Question 3.
What are the main functions and powers of Parliament?
Answer:
Following are the main functions and powers of the Parliament-

The Parliament has the power to enact laws for the whole of the country.
The Parliament controls the Cabinet and Cabinet is responsible to the parliament.
The Parliament controls the finance of the State and it passes the budget.
The Parliament formulates national and foreign policies of the country.

Question 4.
Explain the executive powers of the Parliament.
Or
How does Indian Parliament control the executive?
Answer:
The Parliament controls the executive in the following ways:
1. The Prime Minister and the other ministers are taken from the Parliament and after becoming ministers, they remain the members of the Parliament. They participate in the meetings of the Parliament.

2. The ministers are responsible to the Parliament for their actions and policies.

3. The members of the Parliament can ask the ministers questions regarding the functioning of the administration. The ministers are to give satisfactory replies to all these questions.

4. The members of the Parliament by introducing ‘Adjournment Motion’ can invite the attention of the government ti!> a serious problem or event.

5. During discussion on budget the members of the Parliament discuss the working of different departments of the government and criticize the policies of the government.

6. The Cabinet continues to remain in office according to the wishes of the Lok Sabha. It can seek the removal of the Cabinet by passing a no-confidence motion against it or by rejecting an important government bill or by passing a resolution for reducing the salary of a particular minister. The bill is sent to a small committee which discusses the bill in detail and then sends it with amendments, if any. In second reading, there is clause by clause discussion. Then the bill is put to vote. After the bill is passed it is sent to the other House. The bill passes through similar stages in the other House and is then sent to the president for his assent. After his signature the bill becomes an Act.

Question 5.
Discuss the legislative powers of the Parliament.
Answer:
The Parliament has the right to frame laws for the whole of the country. It can frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the Union List and Concurrent List. Under certain special circumstances the Parliament gets the right to frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the State List.

The Parliament frames laws on State subjects for Union Territories. The Rajya Sabha can transfer a State subject in favor of the Centre for the purpose of making laws. In case of the proclamation of emergency by the President, the Parliament can legislate on State subjects. The Residuary powers are under the control of the Central Government and so Parliament frames laws on all the residuary subjects.

Question 6.
Discuss in brief the judicial powers of the Parliament.
Answer:
Following are the judicial powers of the Parliament:

The Parliament can remove the President from office through impeachment.
The Parliament can also remove the Vice-President from office.
The Parliament can remove the judges of the High Courts and the Supreme Court by passing a resolution to that effect.

Question 7.
What are the qualifications to become a member of the Parliament?
Answer:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed the age of 25 years in case of Lok Sabha and 30 years in case of Rajya Sabha.
He must not hold any office of profit.
He must possess qualifications laid down by the Parliament of India.
He must not be of unsound mind and should not have been declared disqualified by a competent court.

Question 8.
Write the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
According to the constitution the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha has been put at 250 members. Out of 250 members, 12 members are nominated by the President. These members shall consist of persons having special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art and social service.

The remaining 238 members represent the States and the Union Territories. The representatives of the States are elected by the elected members of their Legislative Assemblies in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.

At present the Rajya Sabha has 245 members. Out of 245 members, 233 members represent the states and Union Territories and the remaining 12 members have been nominated by the President.

Question 9.
What are the qualifications of a member of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed 30 years of age.
He must possess such other qualifications as prescribed by the Parliament.
He must be a parliamentary elector in the state from which he is seeking election and must have been residing in the state for the last six months.
He should not hold any office of profit under the government of India or any State government.

Question 10.
Mention the powers of the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
The Indian Vice-President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he performs the following functions:

He presides over the meetings of the Rajya Sabha.
He preserves order in the House. If the situation goes out of control he can adjourn or suspend the meeting of the Rajya Sabha.
He allows the members to speak.
As he is not a member of the Rajya Sabha, he is not allowed to vote, but in case of equality of votes he has a casting vote.

Question 11.
Describe the legislative powers of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
The Rajya Sabha is an integral part of the Indian Parliament. Since the main responsibility of the Parliament is to make laws, hence the Rajya Sabha takes part in the making of laws. Except Money Bills, all bills can originate in the Rajya Sabha. No Bill can become a law unless agreed to by both the Houses.

In case of disagreement between the two Houses on a Bill or on the amendments made in the Bill, the President has been empowered to summon a joint meeting of the two Houses for the purpose of deliberating and voting on the Bill. At a joint sitting, questions are decided by a majority of the members of both houses present and voting. A decision taken at the joint sitting shall mean the decision of both Houses.

Question 12.
Explain in brief the financial powers of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
In financial matters, it is the Lok Sabha which enjoys a pre-eminent position. No Money Bill can first be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. It is the privilege of the Lok Sabha to pass the Money Bill first and send it to the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha is not bound to accept the recommendations made by the Rajya Sabha. In case the Lok Sabha rejects the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha, the Bill is deemed to have been passed by both Houses in the form in which it was passed by the Lok Sabha.

Likewise, if the Rajya Sabha does not return the Money Bill to the Lok Sabha within 14 days, it will be considered to have been passed by both Houses in the form in which it was passed by the Lok Sabha. Thus, the Lok Sabha possesses complete control over the purse of the nation.

Question 13.
Write down the judicial powers of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
The Rajya Sabha enjoys co-equal powers with the Lok Sabha in the process of impeachment of the President. In the removal of the Vice-President, a resolution to that effects can be moved in the Rajya Sabha only. But the Lok Sabha must agree with that resolution if the Vice-President is to be removed from the office. Likewise, it has itjentical powers with the Lok Sabha in the matter of removal of a judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court.

Question 14.
Describe the constitutional powers of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
The Rajya Sabha exercises constituent functions alongwith the Lok Sabha. A Bill to amend the Constitution may originate in either House of the parliament. And the Bill amending the Constitution is required to be passed in each House by a majority of its total membership and by a majority of two-thirds of its members present and voting. The Constitution is silent on how to resolve a dead-lock between the two Houses.

Question 15.
Mention special powers of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
Under the Constitution, the Rajya Sabha has been vested with special powers enumerated in the state list.
1. Under Article 249, the Rajya Sabha may declare by resolution, passed by two- thirds majority of its members present and voting, that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest that the Parliament should make laws with respect to any matter enumerated in the State List.

2. Under Article 312 of the Constitution, the Rajya Sabha is empowered to create one or more All-India Services, if the house passes a resolution by not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest to do so.

3. Rajya Sabha alone can initiate the proposal for removing the Vice-President.

Question 16.
What are the previleges of the members of Rajya Sabha?
Answer:
The members of the Rajya Sabha enjoy following previleges:

The members of the Rajya Sabha enjoy unrestricted freedom to express their views on the floor of the house. No action can be taken against them for the expression of their views.
The members of the Rajya Sabha can’t be arrested for any civil offence during and 40 days before and after the session.

Question 17.
Describe the organisation of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
According to the re-organisation of Goa, Daman and Diu Act of 1987 the maximum elected members of the Lok Sabha can’be 550. members. Two members of Anglo-Indian Community can be appointed by the President. At present Lok Sabha consists of 545 members.

Out of 545 members 543 are directly elected by the people. The members of Lok Sabha are elected by single member constituency. The whole country is divided into equal constituencies. Every citizen whose name is on the voter’s list can cast his vote. A candidate getting highest votes is declared elected.

Question 18.
Describe the qualifications to become a member of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed 25 years of age.
He must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State.
He must possess such other qualifications as may be prescribed by the Parliament.
No person can be a member of both Houses of Parliament. In case he becomes, he must vacate one of the two seats. Likewise, one person cannot be a member of a House of Parliament and of a State Legislature simultaneously.

Question 19.
How are the members of Lok Sabha elected?
Answer:
The members of the Lok Sabha are elected directly by the people. Every citizen of India of not less than 18 years has the right to vote provided, of course, he or she is not otherwise disqualified on grounds of unsoundness of mind, crime or corrupt or illegal practice. The voting is by secret ballot. Normally one member represents a population between 5 to 714 lakhs.

As per constitution, there shall be allotted to each State a number of seats in Lok Sabha in such a manner that the ratio between the population of the State as far as practicable, is same for all the States. Each State shall be divided into territorial constituencies in such a manner that the ratio between the population of each constituency and number of seats allotted to it, as far as practicable, is the same throughout the State.

Question 20.
Define in brief the tenure of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
The life of the Lok Sabha is five years. All the members are chosen at one and at the same time. Unlike the election to the Rajya Sabha where 1/3 members retire every two years, all the members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a period of five years. However, the President can dissolve the Lok Sabha even before the expiry of its term i.e. five years.

Question 21.
Write in brief the privileges of the members of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
Members of the Lok Sabha enjoy certain privileges:

Members have full freedom for speech in the House. No case can be started against a member for a speech given in the House.
Members cannot be arrested in any civil suit before 40 days of the beginning of the session.
During the session, a member can be arrested in criminal cases only but information must be given to the speaker.
Members get monthly salary and many other allowances.

Question 22.
Describe the legislative powers of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
Any type of bill can be introduced in the Lok Sabha. Laws in it, can be -framed on any subject given on the Union list and the concurrent list. The Rajya Sabha can transfer any subject on the State List by passing a resolution in favour of the Centre and Lok Sabha can pass a law on the subject. Rajya Sabha can transfer a subject only in case of national importance.

After the bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha and it can delay the bill at the most for 6 months. If the Rajya Sabha rejects the bill or does not take any action over it for a period of six months, a joint session of the two, Houses of the Parliament is called and the majority vote decides the fate of the bill. As the number of the members of the Lok Sabha is larger than that of the Rajya Sabha, so the members of the Lok Sabha can get the bills passed according to its own wishes.

Question 23.
Discuss about the Financial powers of the Parliament.
Answer:
The Parliament controls the finances of the State. The goverenment places the budget before the start of the financial year. The Parliament discusses the budget and gives its assent to the bill. The government can neither impose any tax upon the public nor can it spend the money without the approval of the Parliament. The President will have to give his assent to the money bill passed by the Parliament.

Question 24.
Write down the executive powers of the Lok Sabha.
Or
How does Lok Sabha controls the Executive?
Answer:
It is the Lok Sabha which controls the executive. The leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabh is the Prime Minister of the country. Most of the ministers are also taken from the Lok Sabha. The Cabinet is responsible to the Lok Sabha for all its actions and policies.

The members of the Lok Sabha ask the ministers questions and supplementary questions and they are to answer these questions. The members of the Lok Sabha can criticize the functioning of the Cabinet. If the Lok Sabha passes a vote of no-confidence against the Cabinet, the Cabinet will have to resign. The Cabinet remains in office till it is supported by the majority of the members of the House.

Question 25.
Discuss the financial powers of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
The Lok Sabha controls the finances of the state. As money bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and not in the Rajya Sabha. If there is a difference of opinion whether a particular bill a money bill or a non-money bill, the decision of the speaker of the Lok Sabha will.be final.

After a money bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha can delay the passage of a money bill at the most for 14 days. The Rajya Sabha may reject the bill or may not take any action over the bill for a period of 14 days, in both these conditions the bill will be considered as passed. It will be sent to the President and he gives his assent to the bill. The President cannot use his veto power in case of money bill.

Question 26.
Who is the speaker?
Answer:
The speaker is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha. He is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from among themselves. The Speaker presides over the meetings of the House; maintains order in the House and conducts the business of the House in accordance with the Rules of the House. The Constitution also provides for the office of the Deputy

Speaker:
He too is the member of the House and is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from among themselves. The Deputy Speaker performs the duties of the speaker when the latter is absent or while the office of the Speaker is vacant.

Question 27.
Who is the Chairman of Lok Sabha? List his four main functions.
Answer:
Chairman of Lok Sabha is popularly known as Speaker. He performs ahead functions:

Preserve Order: He presides over the meetings of the House and preserves order in the House. If the situation goes out of control he can adjourn or suspend the meeting of the House.
Money-Bill: He decides whether a bill is a money-bill.
Guardian of Rights: He is the guardian of the privileges of the member of Lok Sabha.
Joint Meetings: He presides over the joint meetings of both the Houses of Parliament.

Question 28.
How is the Lok Sabha more powerful than the Rajya Sabha?
Answer:
Lok Sabha is more powerful because

The members of Lok Sabha are directly elected while the members of house of Rajya Sabha are indirectly elected.
Money bill cannot be introduced in Rajya Sabha. It originates in the Lok Sabha only. It is sent for recommendation to Rajya Sabha and not for passing. If Rajya Sabha returns it after 14 days it is assumed as passed.
Lok Sabha controls the executive whereas Rajya Sabha has no effective control over the executive.

Question 29.
Explain the relationship between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
Lok Sabha is a lower house while Rajya Sabha is a upper house of the Parliament. Both the houses do not enjoy equal powers. Lok Sabha is more powerful than the Rajya Sabha. Ordinary bills can originate in either House of Parliament. Rajya Sabha can delay an ordinary bill maximum for a period of six months. Money bill can originate in the Lok Sabha only. Rajya Sabha can delay the money bill for 14 days only.

In the matters of finance the powers of the Rajya Sabha are insignificant. Members of the Rajya Sabha can ask questions to the ministers and they can criticise the policies of the government but they are having no power to remove the Council of Ministers. The Lok Sabha can remove the Council of Ministers by passing a vote of no-confidence against the Council of Ministers. Thus Lok Sabha is having a real control over the government.

Question 30.
Narrate the circumstances under which a joint session of the Parliament is summoned. Who presides over this?
Answer:
The President summons the joint session of the Parliament on the following occasions:

Joint session of the Parliament is summoned to resolve the conflict between the two Houses of the Parliament.
Joint session is summoned when a bill is passed by one House and is rejected by the other. The speaker of the Lok Sabha presides over the joint session of the Parliament.

Question 31.
What is the difference between the election of Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha?
Answer:
The members of Lok Sabha are elected directly by the people. Every citizen of India of not less than 18 years of age has the right to vote. From each territorial constituency one member is elected and the candidate getting the highest votes in the election is declared elected. The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the state Assemblies.

Question 32.
What is understood by Adjournment Motion?
Answer:
An adjournment motion is a proposal for postponing the normal business of the House in order to discuss a matter of urgent public importance such as a serious riot, a case of police firing on a procession or a grave railway accident and so on.

The real object of an adjournment motion is to bring to light the inefficiency or corruption of the administration and the mistakes of policy of which the government is considered to be guilty. Such a motion can be moved any time provided the presiding officer of the House is satisfied of its urgent public nature. When such a motion is moved, the House suspends its normal work.

Question 33.
What do you understand by Question Hour?
Answer:
Members of Parliament are free to ask questions to elicit information on matters of public concern from ministers of the government. The First hour of every sitting in both houses is devoted to asking and answering of questions. It is known as the ‘Question Hour’.

During this hour, matters concerning the Government of India are raised and problems are brought to the notice of the government to seek their intervention to meet any situation and to redress public grievances. ‘Question Hour’ forms the most interesting part of the Parliamentary procedure. The government is put on trial during this hour.

Question 34.
What do you understand by ‘Zero Hour’?
Answer:
The time immediately following the ‘Question Hour’ in both Houses has come to be populary known as ‘Zero Hour’. It is a Zero Hour in more than one sense. It is a non¬existent hour. If starts at 12 noon which is the zero hour of the day. It came to be called an Hour also because very often it continued for one full hour, until the House rose for lunch at 1 p.m. In the rules there is no mention of any Zero Hour at all. It is the press that gave the name Zero Hour, sometimes in the early sixties. In the eyes of Rules Book the so called Zero Hour is an irregular affair. But, as thing can, Zero Hour seems to have come to say.

Question 35.
What is money bill?
Answer:
A money bill is that which contains provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters:

the imposition, abolition, remission, alternation or regulation of any tax.
the regulation of the borrowing of money or creation on any financial obligation to be undertaken by the Government in India.
payment of money into or withdrawal of money from the consolidated Fund or the Contingency Fund of India.
appropriation of money out of the Consolidated Fund of India.
the declaring of any expenditure to be expenditure charged on the Consolidated Fund of India of the amount of. any such expenditure.
receipt of money on account of the public account of India and the audit of accounts and incidental matter.

Question 36.
Describe the law-making procedure in the Parliament of India.
Answer:
The Parliament is the supreme body of making laws. Ordinary bills can be introduced in either House of Parliament. In the first reading, general principles involved in the bill are read. After first reading the bill is sent to small committee which discusses the bill in detail and then sends it with amendments if any. In second reading, there is clause by clause discussion. Then the bill is put to vote. After bill is passed it is sent to other House. The bill passes through similar stages in the other House and is then sent to the President for his assent. After his signature the bill becomes an act.

Question 37.
Write down the name of Speaker of Lok Sabha and Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
Answer:

Name of Post	Name of Person
1. Speaker of Lok Sabha	Sh. Om Birla
2. Chairman of.Rajya Sabha	Sh. Venkaiah Naidu
3. Vice-Chairman of Rajya Sabha	Sh. Harivansh Narayan Singh

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Explain in brief the composition of the Union Legislature or Parliament.
Answer:
The Union Legislature or the Parliament of India is a bi-cameral legislature. Council of the States or the Rajya Sabha is the Upper House of the Parliament. It can have at the most 250 members in it. This is a permanent house. Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Parliament. It can have at the most 550 elected members. The members of the Lok Sabha are elected for 5 years. The President of India can dissolve the Lok Sabha on the advice of Council of Ministers before the expiry of its term.

Question 2.
Explain any two features of Indian Parliament.
Answer:

Indian Parliament is Bi-cameral.
Upper House of the Parliament is permanent.

Question 3.
What are the main functions and powers of Parliament?
Answer:
Following are the main functions and powers of the Parliament-

The Parliament has the power to enact laws for the whole of the country.
The Parliament controls the,Cabinet and Cabinet is responsible to the parliament.

Question 4.
How does Indian Parliament control the executive?
Answer:
The Parliament controls the executive in the following ways:

The Prime Minister and the other ministers are taken from the Parliament and after becoming ministers, they remain the members of the Parliament. They participate in the meetings of the Parliament.
The ministers are responsible to the Parliament for their actions and policies.

Question 5.
Explain the legislative powers of the Parliament.
Answer:
The Parliament has the right to frame laws for the whole of the country. It can frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the Union List and Concurrent List. Under certain special circumstances the Parliament gets the right to frame laws on the subjects mentioned in the State List. The Parliament frames laws on State subjects for Union Territories.

Question 6.
Discuss in brief the judicial powers of the Parliament.
Answer:
Following are the judicial powers of the Parliament:

The Parliament can remove the President from office through impeachment.
The Parliament can also remove the Vice-President from office.

Question 7.
What are the qualifications to become a member of the Parliament?
Answer:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed the age of 25 years in case of Lok Sabha and 30 years in case of Rajya Sabha.

Question 8.
Write the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
According to the constitution the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha has been put at 250 members. Out of 250 members, 12 members are nominated by the President. The remaining 238 members represent the States and the Union Territories. At present the Rajya Sabha has 245 members. Out of 245 members, 233 members represent the states and Union Territories and the remaining 12 members have been nominated by the President.

Question 9.
What are the qualifications of a member of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer:

He must be a citizen of India.
He must have completed 30 years of age.

Question 10.
Discuss the powers of the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
The Indian Vice-President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he performs the following functions:

He presides over the meetings of the Rajya Sabha.
He preserves order in the House. If the situation goes out of control he can adjourn or suspend the meeting of the Rajya Sabha.

Question 11.
Mention special powers of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
Under the Constitution, the Rajya Sabha has been vested with special powers enumerated in the state list.
1. Under Article 249, the Rajya Sabha may declare by resolution, passed by two- thirds majority of its members present and voting, that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest that the Parliament should make laws with respect to any matter enumerated in the State List.

2. Rajya Sabha alone can initiate the proposal for removing the Vice-President.

Question 12.
Explain previleges of the members of Rajya Sabha?
Answer:
The members of the Rajya Sabha enjoy following previleges:

The members of the Rajya Sabha enjoy unrestricted freedom to express their views on the floor of the house. No action can be taken against them for the expression of their views.
The members of the Rajya Sabha can’t be arrested for any civil offence during and 40 days before and after the session.

Question 13.
Describe the organisation of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
Elected members of the Lok Sabha can be 550 members. Two members of Anglo- Indian Community can be appointed by the President. At present Lok Sabha consists of 545 members. Out of 545 members 543 are directly elected by the people. The members of Lok Sabha are elected by single member constituency. A candidate getting highest votes is declared elected.

Question 14.
Describe the qualifications to become a member of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:

He must be a citizen of India
He must have completed 25 years of age.

Question 15.
What is the tenure of the Lok Sabha?
Answer:
The life of the Lok Sabha is five years. All the members are chosen at one and at the same time. Unlike the election to the Rajya Sabha where 1/3 members retire every two years, all the members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a period of five years. However, the President can dissolve the Lok Sabha even before the expiry of its term i.e. five years.

Question 16.
Write down the executive powers of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
It is the Lok Sabha which controls the executive. The members of the Lok Sabha ask the ministers questions and supplementary questions and they are to answer these questions. If the Lok Sabha passes a vote of no-confidence against the Cabinet, the Cabinet will have to resign. The Cabinet remains in office till it is supported by the majority of the members of the House.

Question 17.
Explain the financial powers of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
The Lok Sabha controls the finances of the state. As money bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and not in the Rajya Sabha. After a money bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha can delay the passage of a money bill at the most for 14 days. The Rajya Sabha may reject the bill or may not take any action over the bill for a period of 14 days, in both these conditions the bill will be considered as passed. It will be sent to the President and he gives his assent to the bill.

Question 18.
Who is the speaker?
Answer:
The speaker is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha. He is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from among themselves. The Speaker presides over the meetings of the House; maintains order in the House and conducts the business of the House in accordance with the Rules of the House.

Question 19.
Write down any two functions of Speaker.
Answer:
Chairman of Lok Sabha is popularly known as Speaker. He performs functions given ahead:

Preserve Order. He presides over the meetings ofeihe House and preserves order in the House. If the situation goes out of control he can adjourn or suspend the meeting of the House.
Money-Bill. He decides whether a bill is a money-bill.

Question 20.
How is the Lok Sabha more powerful than the Rajya Sabha?
Answer:

The members of Lok Sabha are directly elected while the members of house of Rajya Sabha are indirectly elected.
Money bill cannot be introduced in Rajya Sabha. It originates in the Lok Sabha only. It is sent for recommendation to Rajya Sabha and not for passing. If Rajya Sabha returns it after 14 days it is assumed as passed.

One Word to One Sentence Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Name the two Houses of Indian Parliament.
Answer:

Lok Sabha
Rajya Sabha.

Question 2.
Which one House of the Union Parliament is more powerful?
Answer:
Lok Sabha is more powerful than Rajya Sabha.

Question 3.
How many members can be nominated in Lok Sabha by the President?
Answer:
Two members from Anglo-Indian Community.

Question 4.
How many members can be nominated in Rajya Sabha by the President?
Answer:
12 members are nominated in Rajya Sabha from amongst the scholars, artists and social workers.

Question 5.
How are members of Lok Sabha elected?
Answer:
The members of Lok Sabha are elected directly by the people. Every citizen of 18 years and above has a right to vote.

Question 6.
What is the total strength of Rajya Sabha?
Answer:
The maximum strength, of Rajya Sabha can be 250.

Question 7.
For what PAC stands?
Answer:
Public Accounts Committee.

Question 8.
What is the present strength of Lok Sabha?
Answer:
The Lok Sabha consists of 545 members- 543 elected and 2 nominated Anglo- Indian.

Fill in The Blanks

1. ……………. presides over the joint session of the Parliament.
Answer:
Speaker

2. Cabinet is responsible to ……………. .
Answer:
Parliament

3. The candidate constituting for ……………. should not be less than 25 years.
Answer:
Lok Sabha

4. ……………. members are nominated by the President in Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
12

5. The candidate constituting for ……………. should not be less than 30 years.
Answer:
Rajya Sabha.

True or False statement

1. Two members are nominated by the President in the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
False

2. The session of the Indian Parliament are held at least twice a year.
Answer:
True

3. Vice-President presiding Officer of the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
False

4. The budget is introduced in Lok Sabha by Finance Minister.
Answer:
True

5. President presides over the Lok Sabha.
Answer:
False

Choose The Correct Answer

Question 1.
The Indian Parliament is:
(A) Uni-cameral
(B) Three Houses
(C) Bi-cameral
(D) Four Houses.
Answer:
(C) Bi-cameral

Question 2.
The Lower House of the Indian Parliament is known as:
(A) Rajya Sabha
(B) Lok Sabha
(C) Legislative Assembly
(D) Council of States.
Answer:
(B) Lok Sabha

Question 3.
The Upper House of the Indian Parliament is known as:
(A) Lok Sabha
(B) Rajya Sabha
(C) Council of ministers
(D) Legislative Council.
Answer:
(B) Rajya Sabha

Question 4.
The tenure of the members of the Rajya Sabha is:
(A) 5 years
(B) 4 years
(C) 6 years
(D) 3 years.
Answer:
(C) 6 years

Question 5.
Who is the presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha?
(A) Prime Minister
(B) Vice-President
(C) President
(D) Speaker.
Answer:
(B) Vice-President

Question 6.
Speaker is elected for a period of:
(A) 5 years
(B) 6 years
(C) 7 years
(D) 4 years.
Answer:
(A) 5 years

Question 7.
The tenure of the Lok Sabha in normal times is:
(A) 6 years
(B) 5 years
(C) 4 years
(D) 3 years.
Answer:
(B) 5 years

Question 8.
How many members are nominated by the president in Lok Sabha?
(A) 12 Members
(B) 3 Members
(C) 18 Members
(D) 2 Members.
Answer:
(D) 2 Members.