Zamindars were:

Option B is incorrect because princely rulers were the hereditary rulers of independent states in India. They were not subject to the authority of the Mughal government.

Option C is incorrect because British officials were appointed by the British government to administer the Indian provinces. They were not local landlords.

Option D is incorrect because peasant farmers were the lowest class of people in India. They were responsible for working the land and paying taxes to the zamindars.