Social and Political Life in the Vijayanagara Empire (A.D. 1346 – A.D. 1646) v1.c13.s1.18

v1.c13.s1.18

Having ascertained the prominence given to the theory of punishment in the political writings of the Hindu theorists, we may now gather a few details about the constitution of a court of justice as understood by the lawgivers. Manu advocates personal investigation by the monarch. "A king desirous of investigating law cases must enter his Court of Justice, preserving a dignified demeanour, together with the Brāhmaṇas and with experienced councillors. There, either seated or standing, raising his right arm, without ostentation in his dress and ornaments, let him examine the business of suitors, daily (deciding) one after another (all cases) which fall under the eighteen titles of (the law)