CHENNAI: In his first major administrative action after assuming office, the newly-sworn Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay, has ordered the closure of 717 retail liquor outlets across the state. These shops, operated by the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), are situated within a 500-metre radius of educational institutions, places of worship, and busy transport hubs.
The directive follows a comprehensive state-wide survey ordered by the Chief Minister immediately after taking charge on Sunday. The survey aimed to identify TASMAC outlets operating in “sensitive” zones that have long been a point of contention for local residents and political groups. According to an official release from the Secretariat, the identified shops must cease operations within the next two weeks.
Breakdown of the Affected Outlets
The data provided by the survey highlights a significant concentration of liquor shops in areas frequently visited by students and devotees. Out of the 4,765 retail liquor shops currently active in Tamil Nadu, the 717 shops marked for closure include:
- 276 shops operating in close proximity to temples and other places of worship.
- 186 shops located near schools and other educational institutions.
- 255 shops situated near state and local bus stands.
The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated that this decision was taken strictly in the interest of public welfare. The move is seen as a fulfillment of a key vision shared by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which had campaigned on the promise of a “drug-free Tamil Nadu” during the recent elections.
Public Demand and Political Context
For several years, Tamil Nadu has witnessed protests from various political parties, social activists, and women’s groups demanding the relocation or closure of TASMAC shops in residential and public areas. These groups have often cited safety concerns and the negative impact of such outlets on the social environment of neighborhoods.
By prioritizing this file upon taking office at Fort St. George, CM Vijay has signaled a shift in the state’s approach to liquor retail management. This administrative order comes at a time when TASMAC has been under significant scrutiny. Last year, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted extensive raids across the state in connection with alleged financial irregularities and offences under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Implementation Timeline
District collectors and TASMAC officials have been instructed to ensure that the 717 identified shops are decommissioned by the end of the month. Authorities are expected to monitor the closure process to prevent any unauthorized operations in these zones.
While TASMAC remains a major source of revenue for the state exchequer, the current administration appears focused on balancing fiscal needs with social commitments. The closure of these shops marks the beginning of what many expect to be a series of reforms aimed at public safety and the reduction of alcohol accessibility in sensitive zones.
