For the surname 'Kotwal', see Kotwal (surname).
Kotwal was a title used in medieval India for the leader of a Kot or fort. Kotwals often controlled the fort of a major town or an area of smaller towns on behalf of another ruler. It was similar in function to a British India Zaildar[1] From Mughal times the title was given to the local ruler of a large town and the surrounding area. However, the title is also used for leaders in small villages as well. Kotwal has also been translated as Chief police officer.[2]
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- ↑ Massy, Charles Francis (1890). Chiefs and families of note in the Delhi, Jalandhar, Peshawar and Derajat divisions of the Panjab. Printed at the Pioneer Press. pp. 407. http://books.google.com/books?id=QPcYAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA417. Retrieved 29 May 2010.
- ↑ Saudā, Mirzā Muḥammad Rafiʻ; (Major), Henry Court (1872). Selections from the Kulliyat, or, Complete works of Mirza Rafi-oos-Sauda: being the parts appointed for the high proficiency examination in Oordoo. Printed by J. Elston, "Station Press,". pp. 20–. http://books.google.com/books?id=vrpDAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA20. Retrieved 29 May 2010.
The original article can be found at Kotwal and the edit history here.