Courthouses and gaols, as well as the other accoutrements of the criminal justice system, came under their auspices.
In the post-independence period has remained in gaol or 'house-arrest' for many years-perhaps longer than any other politician in the sub-continent.
The result was the defaulter was gaoled for a period of one to six weeks.
Inconvenient obstructions like the old gaol-house were demolished.
Incarcerated offenders go through the relatively unique experience of time in gaol.
Undoubtedly some magistrates did their best to stamp out the crime by uncompromisingly fining and gaoling offenders.
They observed that gaols were in an abominable state and so detrimental to the inmates' health that their lives were in jeopardy.
Stealing, drinking or leading a dissolute life were ways to escape desperate situations, but these offences could lead to gaol terms.
