The Vidane or Vithanai was a petty native headman or a rural police constable in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) during the colonial era. Appointed by the Government Aagent of the Province.[1][2] The holder had much control over the people of the area and wielded quasi-judicial powers since he was responsible to keep the peace, carry out revenue collection and assist in judicial functions.
Appointments were non-transferable and usually hereditary, made to locals, usually from wealthy influential families loyal to the British Crown.[citation needed]