<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Maharaja Ranjit Singh's rule marked a period of relative legal autonomy within the Sikh Empire. While the Maharaja held considerable centralized power, his administration acknowledged the need for legal structures that accommodated the diversity of the Sikh Empire's inhabitants. Ranjit Singh's legal system was influenced by a blend of Sikh principles, Islamic law, and local customs.</p>
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<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">One notable aspect of legal autonomy under Ranjit Singh was the recognition of Qanun-e-Islam, the Islamic legal code, for Muslims within the Sikh Empire. This allowed for a certain degree of religious autonomy in legal matters for the Muslim population. Simultaneously, Hindu and Sikh legal systems operated for individuals from these communities. The Maharaja's administration demonstrated a pragmatic approach to legal pluralism, recognizing the distinct legal traditions of various religious communities within the empire.</p>
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<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Ranjit Singh also implemented a system of justice that aimed at fairness and impartiality. His court, known as the "Darbar," addressed legal disputes and administered justice based on established laws. The Maharaja appointed Qazis for Islamic legal matters and officials for Hindu and Sikh legal affairs, ensuring representation and expertise from different communities. This approach to legal autonomy contributed to a sense of inclusivity and acknowledgment of diverse legal traditions within the Sikh Empire.</p>