Chaukidari

A system of local policing or watchmen in South Asian countries, especially in India; the office or responsibility of a chaukidar (guard).

From Hindi/Urdu 'चौकीदारी' (chaukidari), derived from 'चौकीदार' (chaukidar), from 'चौक' (chauk, marketplace/station) plus 'दार' (dar, holder/keeper). The system emerged in colonial India.