Seeds of Modern Public Law in Ancient Indian Jurisprudence

This work is an 'exploratory search into the gold mines of Ancient Indian Jurisprudence '. Delivered as public law lectures at the Cochin University of Science and Technology, it is a window to its rich traditions.

The first chapter highlights the presence of the characteristics of a welfare state in ancient India. Supremacy of the law, separation of powers, equality before law, protection of women, minors, the helpless and the sick; were concepts in vogue in India 's ancient administration.

In the next chapter, the author looks at the various laws that regulated the conduct of individuals and how they were enforced through officers and servants of the State. He effectively brings out the meticulousness of the system, and the resemblance modern trends bear to the old laws. Capital punishment, sanctions against violation of consumer interests, environment protection, etc. were issues even then.

The last chapter describes the pattern of governmental functions with various departments to look after specific items of work and the diverse aspects of the justice delivery system are highlighted.

"The book contains a wealth of information about the superb manner in which the ancient Indian legal system functioned. The expert scanning of the scholarly pieces of ancient works, the exquisite comparison between the old principles and modern trends and the concise presentation of complex topics in a simple style make the book significant in its own right. The book unfolds a panoramic view of the ancient legal system surprisingly adorned with many a gem of modern public law precepts."

- Prof. P. Leelakrishnan in his foreword to the book

• Indian Law Institute :

The author reveals a wide range of legal developments in public law which look so modern and meaningful even in today 's context. The author 's style is readable and simple. He has followed a narrative style. ...This book will certainly stimulate a desire to explore further the jurisprudential vistas of ancient India.

• Cochin University Law Review :

The book under review opens unexplored vistas of ancient Indian jurisprudence which may help in solving many defects of the modern system. "The expert scanning of the scholarly pieces of ancient works, the exquisite comparison between the old principles and modern trends and concise presentation of complex topics in a simple style make the book significant in its own right." The above words in the foreword to the book are aptly put, considering the worth of the work. The 'law men ' are indebted to the author for his unique contribution.

• All India Reporter :

This book should not only be read by everyone concerned with law, but one should also allot it an important place in his library.

                   Concept of Welfare State 1

                   State or Social Control Through Law 53

                   Administrative Set up and Administrative Justice 111

                   Human Rights and Bharatiya Values 171