Vijay Government Takes Big Decision on TASMAC Liquor Shops
In one of the first major decisions after assuming office, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 government-run TASMAC liquor shops located near schools, religious places, and bus stations across the state. The move is being seen as a significant public welfare initiative under the newly formed government.
According to official information released on Tuesday, the liquor outlets identified for closure are situated within a 500-meter radius of educational institutions, places of worship, and transport hubs. Authorities have been instructed to complete the shutdown process within the next two weeks.
The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, popularly known as Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation or TASMAC, currently operates around 4,765 retail liquor shops across Tamil Nadu. Following an audit ordered by the Chief Minister, officials identified hundreds of outlets operating close to sensitive public areas.
Which Shops Will Be Closed?
Government data shows that the 717 outlets marked for closure include:
- 276 liquor shops located near temples, churches, mosques, and other religious places
- 186 shops operating close to schools and educational institutions
- 255 liquor outlets situated near bus stands and transport centers
The decision has been widely discussed across Tamil Nadu, with supporters describing it as a strong message from the new administration regarding public safety and social responsibility.
Vijay’s Election Promise Begins Taking Shape
During the Tamil Nadu Assembly election campaign, Vijay and his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam had repeatedly promised measures aimed at reducing alcohol-related social issues and creating a “drug-free Tamil Nadu.”
Political analysts say this decision reflects the government’s attempt to quickly deliver on key promises made during the election campaign. The announcement has also intensified discussions around whether the new administration could move toward stricter liquor regulations in the future.
Public Reaction and Political Impact
The closure order has received mixed reactions from different sections of society. Parents’ groups, religious organizations, and social activists have largely welcomed the move, arguing that liquor shops near schools and public spaces create safety concerns and social disturbances.
However, some economists and opposition voices believe the decision could affect state revenue generated through liquor sales. TASMAC remains one of the Tamil Nadu government’s largest sources of income, contributing thousands of crores annually through alcohol sales.
Despite revenue concerns, supporters of the government argue that the administration is prioritizing public welfare over financial interests.
Latest Developments
Officials in several districts have reportedly begun preparing lists of TASMAC outlets that will be shut under the new directive. Local authorities are also expected to monitor nearby liquor shops to prevent overcrowding after the closures take effect.
The move comes amid broader conversations in Tamil Nadu over alcohol regulation and prohibition policies, an issue that has remained politically sensitive in the state for years. Previous governments, including administrations led by late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, had also announced phased closures of TASMAC outlets in the past.
With this decision, Vijay’s administration has signaled that stricter regulation of liquor sales could become one of the defining policies of the new government in Tamil Nadu.
