12 Ratninas
(Satapatha Brahamana)
1.
|
Purohita
|
the Priest
|
2.
|
Mahishi
|
the Queen
|
3.
|
Yuvaraja
|
Crown Prince
|
4.
|
Suta/Sarathi
|
The Royal herald/ the Charioteer
|
5.
|
Senani
|
The General
|
6.
|
Gramani
|
Head of the village
|
7.
|
Kshata
|
Gateman/Chamberlain
|
8.
|
Sangrahitri
|
Treasurer
|
9.
|
Bhagadudha
|
Collector of taxes
|
10.
|
Akshavapa
|
Courier
|
11.
|
Palagala
|
Friend of King
|
12.
|
Govikarta
|
Head of forest department
|
The popular control over the affairs of the
kingdom was exercised through Sabha and Samiti, as in the Rigvedic period.Vidatha had completely disappeared by
now. Even during the later vedic times, kings
did not possess a standing army. Judiciary also grew. The King played a
great role in administering criminal law.
The killing of an embryo, homicide ,the murder of a Brahmana, in
particular, stealing of gold and drinking sura were regarded as serious crimes.
Treason was a capital offence.