What does the term 'Kantakshodhana' literally mean and imply?

It means 'clearing of thorns,' implying the state's duty to purge society of criminals and anti-social elements that hinder order.

Mauryan Administration

UPSC Archival Analysis

Q: According to the 'Arthashastra' of Kautilya the following courts existed in the judicial system of Mauryan Age- 1. Dharmamahamatra, 2. Dharmasthiya, 3. Rajjuka, 4. Kantakshodhana

The Mauryan judicial system consisted of two primary courts: Dharmasthiya (Civil) and Kantakshodhana (Criminal), as detailed in Kautilya's Arthashastra.

Exam Year

2014

Evidence Source

Link

ID: HIS_ANC_2014_203 Ref: Kautilya's Arthashastra

According to the 'Arthashastra' of Kautilya the following courts existed in the judicial system of Mauryan Age-
1. Dharmamahamatra, 2. Dharmasthiya, 3. Rajjuka, 4. Kantakshodhana

According to the 'Arthashastra' of Kautilya the following courts existed in the judicial system of Mauryan Age-1. Dharmamahamatra, 2. Dharmasthiya, 3. Rajjuka, 4. Kantakshodhana

According to the 'Arthashastra' of Kautilya the following courts existed in the judicial system of Mauryan Age-
1. Dharmamahamatra, 2. Dharmasthiya, 3. Rajjuka, 4. Kantakshodhana