State and Government in Ancient India c21.53

c21.53

There was free intercourse between neighbouring states in time of peace. Passports were of course necessary for entry, but when they were procured, further movements were unrestricted. Foreign merchants visiting the country regularly were not required to procure a passport for every visit. Suspicious looking persons were arrested at ports and were not allowed to proceed.¹ The state kept a watchful eye over the foreigners and noted their movements and actions carefullty with a view to find out whether they were functioning as spies. There was no restriction on the imports and exports of goods ; of course the necessary customs duties had to be paid.