In the past, the kings applied the principle of Dharma to rule their people, settle a lawsuit for their people and kingdom at that time. There will be no severe punishments but instead they have misdemeanor by implanting the concept of Hell - Heaven to cause fear of misconducts and be aware of the consequences of committing an offense.
In the past, monarchs employed the concept of Dharma to administer justice, settle disputes, and regulate their kingdom. They utilized the idea of Hell and Heaven to instill a sense of dread, deterring wrongdoing and encouraging compliance with societal norms.