Law Enforcement Systems in Ancient India

Early law enforcement/policing mechanisms in ancient India differed significantly from the modern systems. Instead of a centralized, formal police force, policing was a multi-layered, decentralized effort with shared responsibilities at the village, city, and state levels.

Pre-history (up to c. 2600 BCE)

  • During pre-historic times, social control was based on norms, customs, and community-level enforcement rather than any formal policing body. The concept of a police force did not exist.
  • Kinship Ties: Social order was maintained by the tribe or community, with kinship ties and customary rules governing behaviour.
  • Elder's Authority: Disputes were likely settled by community elders or a tribal chief.
  • Collective ....
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