Explanation: To understand the context of the statements, we need to delve into the historical background of Bengal during the medieval and colonial periods.
**Iltutmish and Bengal:**
Iltutmish, also known as Shams-ud-din Iltutmish, was the third sultan of the Mamluk dynasty and the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1211 to 1236. During his reign, Iltutmish successfully extended his control over various regions, including Bengal. He appointed his son Nasiruddin Mahmud as the governor of Bengal, and through this appointment, he effectively controlled the region. Therefore, the statement that Iltutmish failed to crush the power of the governor of Bengal is incorrect. Iltutmish was successful in consolidating his power over Bengal and ensuring that the governor was under his control.
**British Reunification of Bengal:**
The British East India Company had divided Bengal into three parts in 1905 under the Viceroy Lord Curzon. This division was intended to improve administrative efficiency and to separate the Muslim-majority areas from the Hindu-majority areas. However, this move was met with significant opposition from the Indian population, leading to widespread protests and the formation of the Swadeshi Movement. In response to the growing unrest and to maintain control, the British government decided to reunite Bengal in 1911. This reunification was part of a broader strategy to appease the Indian population and to maintain British control over the region.
**British Puppet Rulers:**
The British colonial administration often employed the strategy of installing puppet rulers to maintain control over their colonies. These puppet rulers were local leaders who were loyal to the British and could be manipulated to serve British interests. This strategy was used in various parts of India, including Bengal, to ensure that the British could maintain their control without direct administration, which was costly and often met with resistance. The British preferred to have local rulers who could be influenced to act in the interests of the British Empire.
In conclusion, the correct answer is (D) Only 2, 3. The British did reunite Bengal in 1911, and they often sought to install puppet rulers to maintain control over their colonies. The first statement is incorrect as Iltutmish did not fail to crush the power of the governor of Bengal; he was successful in consolidating his power over the region.