Tamil Nadu CM Vijay orders closure of 717 liquor shops near religious places, schools
PTC News Desk: In a significant move, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has ordered closure of 717 state-run liquor retail outlets operating near places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state.
According to the government, the state currently houses 4,765 Tasmac liquor retail shops. Of the 717 identified for closure, 276 are located near places of worship, 186 near educational institutions and 255 near bus stands.
The move is being seen as Vijay’s first major policy decision just hours after becoming Chief Minister. The new government is presenting it as an important social reform step aimed at addressing concerns about the easy availability of liquor in sensitive public places.
However, Tasmac is one of Tamil Nadu’s biggest sources of government revenue, so shutting its outlets is expected to raise discussions about its financial impact and whether the state will still be able to fund its welfare commitments.
Vijay, a 51-year-old actor turned politician, took oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), achieved a major electoral breakthrough to become the single largest party in the state. With support from Congress, Left parties, VCK, and the Muslim League, TVK has formed Tamil Nadu’s first-ever coalition government.
- With inputs from agencies
