The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Third Battle of Panipat was a decisive conflict fought on January 14, 1761, between the Maratha Empire (led by Sadashivrao Bhau) and the invading Afghan army of Ahmad Shah Abdali (Durrani), supported by Indian allies like the Rohillas and the Nawab of Awadh, Shuja-ud-Daula.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Third Battle of Panipat was fought in 1761, not 1757. The year 1757 is historically significant for the Battle of Plassey, which established British political influence in Bengal.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Marathas were politically isolated during this campaign. Due to their earlier raids and interference in the internal affairs of Rajputana and the Jat territories, they failed to secure alliances. The Jats, under Suraj Mal, initially joined but withdrew due to strategic differences. The Rajputs remained neutral, and the Sikhs did not join the main Maratha army.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The battle resulted in a catastrophic defeat for the Marathas, with the loss of the Peshwa's son (Vishwasrao), the commander (Sadashivrao Bhau), and thousands of soldiers. This defeat severely checked the northward expansion of the Maratha Empire, shattered their reputation of invincibility, and created a political vacuum that facilitated the rise of the British East India Company.
Key Takeaway:
The Third Battle of Panipat (1761) exposed the lack of political unity among Indian powers and halted the Maratha ambition of replacing the Mughals as the paramount power in India.