Who of the following rulers had ruled between 1296-1316 CE in the Delhi Sultanate?

Correct option is A

Alauddin Khalji ruled from 1296 to 1316 CE. He was one of the most prominent rulers of the Khalji dynasty and significantly expanded the Delhi Sultanate during his reign. Known for his military prowess and administrative reforms, Alauddin Khalji consolidated power over large parts of North India and even extended the empire's reach to the Deccan region. His reign is marked by both territorial expansion and internal reforms, particularly in the areas of revenue collection and market regulation.

Information Booster:

Alauddin Khalji, under whose rule the Delhi Sultanate reached its peak in terms of territorial expansion, came to power in 1296 after the assassination of his uncle and father-in-law, Sultan Jalaluddin Khalji. His reign witnessed major military campaigns, including the successful invasion of Gujarat, the Deccan, and the Rajput states. His administrative changes included market reforms, control over prices, and the introduction of a centralised taxation system. He was also known for his effective suppression of Mongol invasions.

Additional Information:

(b) Balban: Balban was a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate who reigned from 1266 to 1287. He belonged to the Mamluk (Slave) dynasty and is known for his consolidation of the Delhi Sultanate and the establishment of a strong central administration.
(c) Iltutmish: Iltutmish was an important ruler of the Delhi Sultanate who reigned from 1211 to 1236 CE. He played a significant role in consolidating the Delhi Sultanate, establishing its legitimacy, and gaining recognition from the Caliph of Baghdad.
(d) Muhammad-bin Tughlaq: Muhammad-bin Tughlaq ruled from 1325 to 1351 CE. He is known for his ambitious but often disastrous policies, including the shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad. However, he ruled after the period of 1296-1316 CE, which makes him an incorrect option for this time frame.