Dharmasthiya: Civil Justice
Justice is the foundation of legitimate rule. Dharmasthiya (civil law administration) covers the 18 types of legal disputes (Vivada Pada) from contracts to inheritance to defamation. This chapter explores Kautilya's evidence rules (Sakshi), the three types of proof (documents, witnesses, possession), court procedures, and protecting the innocent. The Pradvivaka (judge) must balance compassion with firmness.
Lessons in this chapter
- Dharmasthiya — Civil Law and Disputes
- Kantakasodhana — Removing the Thorns
- Courts and Judges — Dharmastha - The Upholders of Justice
- Evidence and Procedure — Rules of Fair Trial
- Punishments and Proportionality — Danda - The Rod of Justice
- Justice for All Classes — Equality Before Law