Kotowal (also spelled Cotwal or Kotval) is a term historically used in South Asia to designate a police officer during the medieval and early modern periods. In various contexts, the title has been translated as "Chief police officer." The role dates back to ancient times, where it was known as Kota pala, referring to the chief of the police.
The responsibilities of a Kotwal often involved controlling the fort of a major town or overseeing an area comprising several smaller towns on behalf of a ruler. During the Mughal era, the title was specifically granted to the local ruler of a large town and its surrounding territory. The position served a function similar to that of a British Indian Zaildar, though the title was also applied to leaders in smaller villages.