Features of the Activities of Political Agents in the Tribal Area of the North-West Frontier Province of British India (1919–1939)

Abstract

The special form of government of the North-West Frontier Province, analyzed in the article, was established through the interaction of British political agents with local tribes. The territory under consideration was characterized by a high level of instability, which they tried to neutralize by creating a multi-level management system, as well as establishing parity among local elites with British mediation as an arbiter. The administrative system formed by agents has survived, territorially related to modern Pakistan, with its characteristic problems, which is presented as the historical experience of British India in controlling its northwestern border. The main task of the British officers was to establish a controlled system of checks and balances in the border zone, aimed at resolving issues of ensuring the reliable protection of British India from external threats. At the same time, the possibility of a foothold for the territory under consideration was created for further geopolitical competition in Asia. The presented hierarchy of subordination removed this region from the general system of colony management and prevented reforms. The tribal area was under the territorial jurisdiction of British India, had full autonomy with limited agents who had representation in local jirgas and coordinated the actions of the militias, self-defense units, scouts. The implementation of the set installations was carried out using a number of mechanisms for the management of the province, concluded in diplomatic agreements, supported by financial payments in favor of the local elite, as well as by engaging the Indian army in particularly unstable areas.