"The next important concept about the king was that he was a servant of the people. An early Dharmasutra writer remarked that the king was essentially a servant, and that the 16% tax was his remuneration." At one point, Kautilya mentions how the king was equivalent to his soldiers, both receiving different remuneration and entitled to share the nation's wealth. Narada also considers taxation as the king's salary for protecting the people.
Apararka states that no one pays taxes without expecting a return; therefore, taxes are paid in exchange for receiving protection from the king. Since the people pay the king a fair remuneration, the king must inevitably serve them as a servant, even as a slave. This is certainly an exaggeration; the reality is reflected in the writings of Sukra, where he describes the king as both master and servant of the people.
Which of the following describes the king as both master and servant of the people?
Correct Answer: (c) Shukranitisara
Solution:In Shukranitisara, the king is described as both the master and servant of the people. Like many ancient Indian writers, Shukracharya also considered politics an aspect of morality. Under morality, being the master and servant of the people means that every decision of the king should be beneficial to the people, and the people should also contribute to the advancement of the monarchy by paying state taxes.