Hindu Administrative Institutions c8.s3.88

c8.s3.88

The various restrictions placed on the process of consultation point to the fact that cabinet secrecy was an essential feature of the ancient administration and also the significant place assigned to the *mantra*.³ It is said that⁴ the progress of the state depends upon the roots of *mantra*, deliberated by the councillors. These should operate in such a manner that the weak spots of their state should not be disclosed whilst those of the enemy could be seen. This aspect of consultation is also noted by Kauṭalya.⁵ They should learn a truth from the tortoise which draws all its limbs within its shell. Counsels which are kept close by the counsellors form the armour of the king and the limbs, other subjects of the state. Hence the ministers must heartily co-operate with the king in carrying out the affairs of the state.¹