Governance System of Princely States in British India: A Case Study of Swat

Abstract

This study involves a historical and analytical exploration of the Wali system in Swat, covering the period from 1917 to 1969. It examines how the governance structures, established under the Walis, impacted Swat's legal, administrative, and defense frameworks. Through primary and secondary sources, it seeks to outline the distinctive approach of the Wali’s justice system, which relied on Shariah and locally developed codes of conduct, and evaluates how these systems maintained social stability. The defense structure, crafted to preserve internal and external security, is also analyzed to understand its role in Swat’s autonomy.