The fourth volume of the
Arthashastra deals with measures to be taken against the disturbance of public order.
The king
should protect his kingdom from national calamities such as are fire, floods, disease and famine. During famine, the king may distribute either his own collection of provisions among the people, or the hoarded income of the rich (by raising additional revenues from them). The king shall protect the afflicted among his people as a father protects his sons…
Those suspected of manufacturing counterfeit coins, or lowering the quality of gold by mixing it with an alloy, should be banished.
Kautilya says that offences to women or kinsmen, claims of inheritance, professional competition, hatred against rivals, commercial and legal disputes are the cause of anger; and anger is the cause of violent death.
No suspected person should be arrested - as there is no room for questioning unless there is strong evidence to bring home the charge. The production of conclusive evidence must be insisted upon; and
punishment must be meted out only when the charge is established against the accused. And persons, who charge an innocent man with a crime, shall themselves become liable to punishment. Punishment shall also be imposed in case of causing death to any one by torture.
The king shall first test the conduct of his government servants – and only those officers of approved character shall examine the conduct of his people.
Taking into consideration the standing of the person, the nature of the offence, the cause (whether grave or slight), the antecedent and present circumstances; the official shall impose the appropriate financial penalties.