Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c11.s5.11

c11.s5.11

In criminal cases, such as those of violence, thieving, felonies, abuse, assault or kidnapping, all could be witnesses. In other cases, children, forgerers, relations, enemies, prejudiced persons or inferior caste people were not to be witnesses. Nor were women to be witnesses except where female interests were concerned. Witnesses must speak the truth on risk of severe penalty. No one should speak unless he is asked to. No forced or tutored evidence was admissible.