The Palace (Saaphri Part 8‪)‬

“Maharaj, revenue collection is a specialized job. I don’t know how soldiers will do that? Secondly, revenue collectors also look after many other welfare functions of the state. Therefore, replacing them with soldiers is not advisable.”

“What do you say, Ram?” Dasaratha was exploring for support.

Looking into his father’s eyes, Ram firmly replied,

“I agree with amatya. Soldiers are recruited for a specific purpose and their meddling in civil administration is not good. This proposal will initiate internal conflict between the royal departments. Further, direct and prolong contact of soldiers with people will be detrimental for the security of the state. As incident of Lahari suggests, there is a danger of them becoming brutal tyrants and robbers at local level.”

Ram looked into everyone’s eyes. Truth needs to be told howsoever it may sound unpleasant to ears.

“There are three important questions to ponder. The first question is whether we Ikshwaku guarantee and are able to safeguard the interests of our residents. Secondly, why do we need territorial expansion? Specially, when that expansion is beyond our managing capabilities and makes us dependent on outsiders, as army chief has indicated. Thirdly, I am unable to understand, to whom these independent soldiers and their commanders will be loyal in the long run?”