Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Orders Closure of 717 TASMAC Liquor Shops Near Sensitive Locations

In a move aimed at public welfare, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has instructed the closure of 717 government-run TASMAC liquor outlets situated within close proximity to places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state.

Following his recent appointment, CM Vijay initiated a survey of TASMAC outlets to identify those operating near sensitive locations such as religious sites, schools, colleges, and transportation hubs.

According to an official release by ANI, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation currently manages 4,765 retail liquor stores statewide. Subsequent to the Chief Minister's directive, a thorough review was conducted to pinpoint shops falling within the 500-meter radius of the specified areas.

The survey revealed that a total of 717 outlets are located within the restricted zone, with 276 near places of worship, 186 in proximity to educational institutions, and 255 adjacent to bus stands.

Based on these findings, CM Vijay has mandated officials to close down all 717 outlets within the next two weeks.

While TASMAC outlets serve as a significant revenue source for the state government of Tamil Nadu, various political parties have consistently called for the shutdown of multiple liquor shops over the years.

Moreover, the corporation has been under scrutiny by the Enforcement Directorate, with searches conducted at various locations in Tamil Nadu last year as part of an investigation into alleged offences involving Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation Limited and its associated entities under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party also promised in its manifesto to strive towards creating a drug-free Tamil Nadu.

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