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U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2003

Ancient Indian Social Law

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which among of the following prohibits remarriage?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Social laws in ancient India varied between religious texts (Dharmashastras) and secular/political texts (Arthashastra).

Explanation The Manusmriti (Chapter 5) strictly outlines the duties of women, emphasizing that a virtuous wife should never even mention the name of another man after her husband's death, effectively prohibiting remarriage.

Logical Breakup
Manusmriti (B): The most orthodox Dharmashastra, which rigidified social hierarchies and gender roles.
Arthashastra (D): Kautilya's text is more pragmatic and allows for remarriage and even divorce (Moksha) under specific conditions.
Yagyavalkya (C): While also a Dharmashastra, it is generally considered slightly more liberal than Manu in terms of women's property rights.

Active Recall

Question

What was the concept of 'Niyoga' in Vedic times?

Answer

It was a practice where a childless widow could cohabit with her brother-in-law to produce an heir, a custom Manu later viewed with disfavor.

Core Insight

The prohibition of remarriage in Manusmriti reflects the transition of Indian society towards more rigid patriarchal structures during the early centuries of the Common Era.

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