Consider the following statements regarding the administration of the Western Chalukyas:
1. Their governance was decentralized, similar to the administrative system of the Cholas.
2. Women actively participated in administrative affairs.
3. Even the king was subject to punishment under their legal system.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation Statement 1 is not correct: The Chalukya administration was highly centralized, unlike the decentralized systems of the Pallavas and the Cholas. Village autonomy was largely absent, with administrative power concentrated in the hands of the central authority.
Statement 2 is correct: Women held a respected position in Chalukyan society, particularly within the royal family. Some royal women effectively governed territories, demonstrating their administrative capabilities. Inscriptions from the period mention women making land donations for religious purposes, funding public works, and commissioning temples. They were recognized not only for their wisdom and benevolence but also for their contributions to governance.
Statement 3 is correct: Justice was considered a serious responsibility under the Chalukyan administration. The concept of danda (coercive authority or punishment) was emphasized in the Dharmashastras. The Manasollasa states that a ruler who punishes the innocent or fails to punish the guilty invites misfortune and damages his reputation. No one, including the king himself, his priests, close relatives, or members of the royal family, was exempt from punishment if they deviated from their duties.
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