A Mahamatra (meaning "Officer of high rank")[1] was an "officer of morality" established by the Indian Maurya Emperor Ashoka (reigned 269-233 BCE). Their full title was Dhaṃma Mahāmātā, the "Inspectors of Dharma".[2] They were apparently a class of senior officials who were in charge various aspects of administration and justice.[3]
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.[3]
Some were called "Dharma-Mahamatras" ("Mahamatras of Virtue"), who seem to have been established in the 14th year of Ashoka's reign (256 BCE).[3] There were also Amta-mahamatras in charge of foreigners, and Stri-adhyaksha- mahamatras, in charge of women.[3] [4]