The Political Institutions and Theories of the Hindus: A Study in Comparative Politics c15.37

c15.37

The theory of old age pensions is not indeed stated by any of the Hindu theorists. But the widows of soldiers killed in battles are to receive pension according to Vasiṣṭha.³ The *Mahâbhârata*⁴ suggests that the state should support the wives and children of men who have sacrificed their lives for it or otherwise been in distress while serving it. Protection of the weak and afflicted persons is insured in the *Artha-śâstra*.⁵ Kautilya would legislate also to forbid trade in dangerous goods,⁶ as he would likewise forbid “profiteering”, high rates of interest and so forth. The social and economic legislation⁷ recommended in the *Śukra-nîti* is sweepingly vast and wide. It leaves very little to the caprices of the individual's civic sense and patriotism. Tanks, wells, parks and boundaries must not be obstructed by the citizens. Nor must the use of religious houses, temples and roads be hindered in any way. The movements of the poor, the blind and the deformed similarly call forth the solicitude of Śukra legislators.¹