Question:
Consider the following statements regarding the administrative structure of Kullu tehsil at the end of the 19th Century:
Statement I: Tehsils were divided into waziris, and waziris into phatis.
Statement II: Each phati was further divided into kothis.
Choose the correct option:
(A) Both statements are correct
(B) Only statement I is correct
(C) Only statement II is correct
(D) Both statements are incorrect
Answer : (D) Both statements are incorrect
A closer look at the historical administrative hierarchy of Kullu reveals that both statements misrepresent the actual structure.
Analysis of Kullu’s Administrative Structure
The administrative system in the Kullu tehsil during the British period, particularly at the end of the 19th century, was unique. Here’s the correct hierarchy, which shows why both statements are flawed:
- The Kullu Tehsil (or subdivision) was first divided into Waziris.
- Each Waziri was then subdivided into several Kothis. A Kothi was the primary unit of administration, often corresponding to a historical principality or a distinct geographical area.
- Each Kothi was further divided into Phatis, which were the smallest units for the purpose of revenue collection.
Let’s re-examine the statements based on this correct structure:
- Statement I: Tehsils were divided into waziris, and waziris into phatis.
- Incorrect. This statement skips a crucial level. Waziris were divided into Kothis, not directly into Phatis.
- Statement II: Each phati was further divided into kothis.
- Incorrect. This reverses the order. Kothis were divided into Phatis. Phatis were the subdivisions of Kothis.