Jain Inscriptions of Rajasthan

Author(s): Ramvallabh Somani
Publisher: Rajasthan Prakrit Bharti Sansthan Jaipur

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members53 (1) Adayaka (2) Nibandhaka (3) Pratibandhaka (4) Vinigrahaka and (5) Rajadhyaksa. These members were also called the "Karanikas". Some scholars argue that the words Panchakula-Pratipatau" appended with the names of the chief ministers in the inscriptions were indicative of those Panchakulas appointed by the state government, wherein the chief minister was the active member. But this assumption does not seem to be correct. From Hatundi two inscriptions54 of V. E. 1335 and 1345 contain the above phrase "Panchakula Pratipatau" in connection with the grant made to the Jain temple. The inscription of V. E. 1335, however, does not have the name of any minister in this context, while the other inscription of V.E. 1345 contains the name of chief minister also. Therefore, the above assumption does not seem to be correct. It is obvious that these Panchakulas were controlled by rulers. There are cases, when all its members were appointed by the respective governments. The Bninmal55 inscriptions of V. E. 1306 and 1336 give an idea that the members of Panchakula were nominated by the state.
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Similar fact is also gleaned from the Moha-Parajaya (Drama) which mentions that Chalukya Kumarpal appointed the members of Panchakula to enquire into the property of a deceased richman.
53. Etihasika-Sodh-Sangraha by the Author p. 107.
54. Jin Vijay No. 318-320.
55. The Bhinmal inscriptions No. 10 and 11
56. Hermann Jacobi-The Samaraichcha Kaha (Cal. 1926) p. 222.
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No detailed information about the functioning of these Panchakulas is known. It seems that it was a body responsible not only for investigating a crime, reprehending criminals and maintaining law and order but for making all other local arrangements including collection of some taxes. There are some references in the Samaraichchakaha56 which provides us with details concerning the functions of these Panchakulas. The detailed enquiries were conducted by this body in pilferage and in other matters. On receiving a report of theft wide publicity was made by beating