Mahamatra


The expression Dhaṃma Mahāmātā, the "Inspectors of the Dharma", established by Ashoka. 7 Edict on the Delhi-Topra pillar, Brahmi script.
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A Mahamatra was an "officer of morality" established by the Indian Emperor Ashoka. Their full title was Dhaṃma Mahāmātā, the "Inspectors of the Dharma". They were apparently a class of senior officials who were in charge various aspects of administration and justice.
The Mahamatras are mentioned in several of the Edicts of Ashoka, inscribed on rocks or pillars. They seem to have been an essential part of his government.
Some were called "Dharma-Mahamatras", who seem to have been established in the 14th year of Ashoka's reign. There were also Amta-mahamatras in charge of foreigners, and Stri-adhyaksha- mahamatras, in charge of women.