UPSC Prelims 1996 · General Studies
Question 79: History and Culture
Which one of the following texts of ancient India allows divorce to a wife deserted by her husband?
AnswerThe answer is (d).
Kautilya's Arthashastra sets out when a woman may leave her husband and marry again: a wife abandoned or long deserted by her husband may remarry after specified waiting periods, and some forms of marriage could be dissolved by mutual consent. The Manusmriti (Manavadharmashastra) generally does not allow a wife to be released from marriage. Remember: Arthashastra - provisions for divorce and remarriage.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) The Kamasutra is a text on love and conduct, not the legal text that sets this out.
- (b) The Manusmriti generally does not allow a wife to be released from marriage.
- (c) The Sukra Nitisara is a work on polity, not the text the question points to.
- (d) Right: the Arthashastra allows divorce or remarriage for a wife deserted by her husband.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1996, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.