Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c8.s5.50

c8.s5.50

After a conquest had been effected, the suzerain should not attempt to bring the new acquisition into uniformity with his original territory. Let him maintain the fallen dynasty on the throne. Let him rescue the dependent princes from misfortunes, redress their grievances, treat them with honour and kindness, and even shower on them wealth and dignity. The suzerain should respect their family rights, their property rights. Nor should he depart from these maxims on the death of the vassal. The latter's son should be duly crowned. The people of the feudatory states should be disturbed as little as possible. Manners and customs corresponded to conveniences and should be respected by the suzerain. What was good for one place might not be good for another. Such was the theory of the protectorates.¹