Needless to mention here, the British wanted to have more sway over the Nawab's regime so that they could make the trade from Bengal more profitable.
They were also unhappy over the new Nawab's affinity towards their archrival, the French. The British, therefore, asked their representative Robert Clive to find out who could be their aide in their conflict against Siraj.
The British sent feelers to a disgruntled few in Siraj-ud-Daulah's court and tried to lure them with a promise of handsome rewards. It was also assured that whoever helped the British would be granted the title of Nawab. Mir Jafar fell for it.
On getting the hint of revolt brewing in his court, Siraj had Mir Jafar removed from the post of army head immediately and his place was offered to Mir Madan. Siraj, however, did not take any extreme step against Mir Jafar, fearing an uprising. Mir Jafar escaped severe punishment, yet again.
Lesson: In an organisation, a leader should be firm in the affairs of the state and should not tolerate any indiscipline even if the same is committed by a top ranking executive.
In an age of high attrition, a leader needs to ensure that his dependence on key resources is minimal. Even if one act of treason may be forgiven, a repeat act should never ever be tolerated upon and should be punished with expulsion.
Image: Lord Robert Clive
Also read: How companies make good decisions
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