Which one of the following statements with regard to ryotwari settlement is not correct ? ​

• A. In southern and western India, the ryotwari settlement was adopted.
• B. Ryotwari was in principle a direct contract between the ryot and the state.
• C. It means a tax contract valid for usually 30 years.
• D. In principle, it strengthened the former elite, the zamindars and weakened the peasantry.