3. What types of pro-Muslim policies were enacted in the Delhi Sultanate? Why were these policies deemed necessary?

During the Delhi Sultanate, various pro-Muslim policies were enacted, largely to establish and consolidate the authority of the ruling Muslim elite and promote Islam as the dominant religion. Some of these policies included:

1. Religious Patronage: The Sultanate rulers offered patronage and support to Islamic scholars, theologians and institutions. They encouraged the spread of Islamic teachings and the construction of mosques and religious schools (madrasas).
2. Legal System: Islamic law (Sharia) was introduced and applied in many aspects of governance, including matters of personal law, family, and civil disputes. This aimed to establish an Islamic legal framework within the society.
3. Land Grants and Incentives: Land grants were often given to Muslim scholars, soldiers and administrators as a means of rewarding loyalty and promoting Islam among the elites. These grants helped consolidate Muslim control and support among influential figures.
4. Encouragement of Conversion: Though not necessarily through force, there were instances of policies encouraging non-Muslims to convert to Islam. Some measures were taken to incentivize conversion, such as tax relief or social benefits for converts.

These policies were deemed necessary for several reasons:

1. Consolidating Rule: The Sultanate rulers were a minority ruling over a predominantly non-Muslim population. Implementing pro-Muslim policies helped consolidate their rule by creating a loyal Muslim elite and support base.
2. Promoting Religious Identity: The Sultanate aimed to promote Islam as the dominant religion and establish its cultural and religious identity in the Indian subcontinent.
3. Administrative Uniformity: Implementing Islamic law and governance helped create a more uniform legal and administrative system throughout the Sultanate.
4. Social Cohesion: Encouraging conversion and patronizing Islamic institutions aimed to create a cohesive society with a shared religious identity, which was seen as necessary for stability and unity.

These policies were part of a larger strategy to establish and maintain the authority of the ruling Muslim elite in the Delhi Sultanate and to spread Islam in the region.