Meaning of the term Kotwal used during Delhi Sultanate
The term “Kotwal” refers to the chief of police or the superintendent of the city during the Delhi Sultanate period in medieval India. The Kotwal was responsible for maintaining law and order in the city and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens.
The Kotwal was appointed by the Sultan or his provincial governors, and he was responsible for organizing the police force and ensuring that they carried out their duties efficiently. The police force was composed of both foot soldiers and horsemen, and they were responsible for patrolling the streets, preventing crimes, and maintaining public order.
The Kotwal was also responsible for managing the jails and prisons in the city, and he had the authority to arrest and detain suspects who were accused of crimes. The Kotwal was required to maintain a detailed record of the crimes committed in the city and the actions taken by the police force to address them.
In addition to his law enforcement duties, the Kotwal was also responsible for managing the markets and regulating trade and commerce in the city. He was responsible for ensuring that traders and merchants followed the rules and regulations regarding the sale of goods, weights and measures, and the payment of taxes and duties.
The Kotwal was an important figure in the administration of the Delhi Sultanate, as he played a crucial role in maintaining law and order in the cities and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens. The position of the Kotwal was held in high esteem, and he was often chosen based on his administrative capabilities and his loyalty to the Sultan or the government.