The list of the weaker sections of the society, who required special protection, occurs in a number of places: priority of audience before the king {1.19.29}, maintenance at state expense {2.1.26}, free travel on ferries {2.28.18} and the special responsibility of judges on matters concerning them {3.20.22}. The list, with minor variations, always runs: brahmins, ascetics, the minors, the aged, the sick, the handicapped, the helpless and women.
