[Solved] Courts in Mauryan Judicial System | Kautilyan Law

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

[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. Prelims 2014]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Kautilya established a two-tier judicial system to handle disputes between individuals and crimes against the state.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Arthashastra explicitly mentions two types of courts: Dharmasthiya (Civil Courts) and Kantakshodhana (Criminal Courts, literally 'removal of thorns').

Analytical Breakdown

Dharmasthiya (2): Managed by three Dharmasthas (judges) dealing with family, property, and contract laws.

Kantakshodhana (4): Managed by three Pradeshtris dealing with crimes like theft, murder, and administrative corruption.

Exclusions: Dharmamahamatras (1) were religious officers appointed by Ashoka, and Rajjukas (3) were district-level revenue and judicial officers, not the primary court designations.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"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.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The separation of civil and criminal jurisdictions in the 3rd century BCE shows a level of legal maturity comparable to modern judicial systems."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Danda (Punishment) 2

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