Ancient Judicial System in the Hindu period | Hindu Period: in Indian Sub-continent

 Hindu period: Ancient Judicial System

This period extends for nearly 1500 years before and after the beginning of the Christian ear. Ancient India was divided into several independent states and the Kings were the supreme authority of each state. The essential features of the judicial system of this period were as follows:

Organization of Court Structure

1. The King’s Court :

The King’s court was the highest court of appeal in the state. It was also a court of original jurisdiction for cases of vital importance to the state. The chief justice and other Judges, ministers, elders, and representatives of the trading community.

2. The Chief Justice’s Court :

The Chief Justice’s court consisted of the Chief Justice and a board of judges to assist him. All the judges in the board belonged to three upper castes preferably Brahmins.

3. Special Tribunal :

Sometimes separate tribunals with specified territorial jurisdiction used to be formed from among judges who were members of the board of the Chief justice’s court.

4. Town or District court :

In towns and district courts were run by the government officials to administer justice under the authority of the King.

5. Village Council :

The local village councils or Kulani were constituted at the village level. A board of five members or more were appointed for the administration of justice to villagers.