Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which of the following inscriptions of Ashoka bans animal sacrifice on certain festive gathering, that probably included a ban on animal killing as well?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism led to a proactive legislative policy of 'Ahimsa' (non-violence) toward all living beings, codified in his official edicts.Explanation
Major Rock Edict I declares: 'No living being should be slaughtered for sacrifice, and no festive gathering (samaja) should be held.' It also notes that while previously hundreds of thousands of animals were killed in the royal kitchen, the number had been reduced to just two peacocks and one deer, with a promise to stop entirely.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Rock Edict I is the foundational statement on non-violence (Ahimsa) in the Mauryan legal code.
Logic 2: Pillar Edict V lists specific protected species and dates, but the initial and complete ban on sacrificial 'festive gatherings' is found in Rock Edict I.