Question

Which of the following ancient texts was the source of crime, crime control and punishment in the Indian traditional system of governance?

• A. Garud Puran
• B. Dharmasastra
• C. Atharva Veda
• D. Yajur Veda

Hint:

Remember the hierarchy and purpose of ancient Indian texts. The Vedas are foundational spiritual texts. The Dharmasastras are specialized texts that interpret Vedic principles to create codes of law and social conduct.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks to identify the body of ancient Indian literature that specifically deals with law, duty, crime, and punishment, forming the basis of the traditional justice system.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the options:
1. Garud Puran: The Puranas are post-Vedic texts that contain narratives about the history of the universe, genealogies of gods, and Hindu philosophy. While they discuss karma and consequences, they are not legal codes.
2. Dharmasastra: This is a genre of Sanskrit texts that refers to the treatises (sastras) on dharma. Dharma here encompasses concepts of law, justice, rights, duties, and ethics. Texts like the Manusmriti and Yajnavalkya Smriti are key examples of Dharmasastras, which extensively detail civil and criminal law, procedures for trials, and types of punishments. This makes them the primary source for traditional Indian jurisprudence.
3. Atharva Veda and 4. Yajur Veda: The Vedas are the most ancient Hindu scriptures, primarily containing hymns, mantras, and philosophical treatises. While they contain principles of righteous living (dharma), they are not systematic legal texts that detail crime, control, and punishment in the way Dharmasastras do.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Dharmasastras are the specific ancient texts that systematically laid down the principles and laws concerning crime, justice, and punishment in the traditional Indian system of governance.