Transparency and Accountability in Maharaja Ranjit Singh Reign

Maharaja Ranjit Singh is a significant warrior in the history of Sikhism.

Also known as ‘Sher-e-Punjab’ or ‘Lion of Punjab’, he was popular for his courage, wisdom, far-sightedness, and unmatched leadership among local kingdoms.

He contributed to developing a robust Sikh Empire backed by transparent and astute administration that made the Punjab region a Powerful State for around 40 years.

The Governance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh had various features that set it apart from other existing Indian Subcontinents.

Systematic Care, Transparency and Accountability of Peasants

Maharaja was deeply connected to Soil and its heritage.
The roots of Maharaja’s transparent and accountable governance were seen in the resumption of wastelands.
The farmers formed about 66 per cent of his population and did not own their lands.
Hence, the Maharaja gave back the land to people who actually cultivated it and removed the Zamindars that the former Mughals’ appointed.
This transparent approach gave back farmers their rights and citizens a rehabilitation of devastated lands.
In this way, Maharaja was the epitome of transparency and accountability in his reign.

Fair Employment Distribution for Every Individual

Another aspect of Ranjit Singh Ji’s Transparent and Accountable Governance is reflected in his employment system.
It was known to neighboring reigns for its fairness.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s flair and keen eye for people’s talent irrespective of their creed, caste or color contributed to a sense of stability within the empire.
He ensured that the legal framework was impartial and open to people of all religions.
Under his administration, every person with knowledge, and skills was welcomed for duties.
In this way, these practices showed the remarkable accountability of Maharaja Ranjit Singh for his humans and humankind altogether.

Improved Agriculture, Lifestyle and Crop Production

The accountability for the people of his reign was reflected in his actions.
He promoted the restoration of old canals and dug new ones.
On his tours to the countryside, Maharaja visited peasants personally to solve their problems.
Once Maharaja gave back lands to their true heirs, people started harvesting delightfully and it started reaping benefits.
Punjab became the land of golden sparrows with enormous crop cultivation having the finest quality and firm rates.
Subsequently, Maharaja took several measures to improve the agricultural foundation and production of each seasonal crop.
This resulted in the restoration of Prosperity in the State which was suppressed for last centuries.

Accountability for Freedom of Territorial Religions and Beliefs

The next parameter of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji’s Transparent Governance and Accountability for his territory is linked with religious freedom.
Despite being a Sikh, he never forced people to follow his only religion but took responsibility for providing religious freedom and caring for various communities.
Many temples, mosques and religious institutes were opened during his tenure under his fair policy of giving fullest religious freedom to all.
He once allowed one of his Generals to leave for two years as he wanted to provide his Son with a Christian education.
Thus, he never proclaimed Sikhism as a State Religion and ensured everyone was following and enjoying their desired beliefs and spiritual practices.