Dandaniti is a political philosophy of ancient India. It finds mention in Kautilya’s work, the Arthashashtra. It refers to the use of punishment for maintaining social order and achieving political goals. It is regarded as one of the seven constituents (Saptanga) of a just and stable state. Kautilya mentioned four strategies – Sama (reconciliation), Dama (gift), Danda (punishment), and Bheda (division) as ways of resolving political issues peacefully to prevent conflicts, wars, and unrest.