What were the sabha and the Samiti?
The king in the Early Vedic period did not have absolute power and had to consult two councils, sabha and samiti, before taking important decisions. The samiti was a big assembly where any member of the tribe could express his/her opinion regarding issues under consideration. The sabha, on the other hand, was a smaller assembly of the important tribe members who advised and aided the king. Women could also take part in such assemblies.