In a significant policy decision, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 state-run liquor shops across the state. The directive targets outlets operating within a 500-meter radius of educational institutions, places of worship, and bus stands.
The Chief Minister, who recently took oath in Chennai, mandated that all identified Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) retail outlets must be shut down within the next two weeks. This measure aims to address public welfare, enhance women's safety, and protect the younger generation from the adverse effects of alcohol accessibility near sensitive areas.
Details of the Closure
Out of the 4,765 Tasmac liquor retail outlets currently operating in Tamil Nadu, 717 have been identified for closure. The breakdown of these shops includes:
- 276 located near religious places (temples, mosques, churches)
- 186 situated near educational institutions (schools, colleges)
- 255 found near bus stands
A government release stated that the Chief Minister issued the directive after considering public welfare. The administration also plans to monitor potential overcrowding in nearby operational outlets following these closures.
Positive Reception and Broader Promises
Kishore Chandran, Founder and President of the Dr. Kalam Foundation, lauded the move as a "bold and welcome" step by Chief Minister Vijay. He emphasized its importance in ensuring public welfare, women's safety, and safeguarding the youth.
This initiative is part of a broader set of promises made by Chief Minister Vijay and his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party. Other commitments include providing 200 units of free electricity every two months, establishing a special task force dedicated to women's safety, and setting up anti-drug units across the state.
Chief Minister Vijay, an actor-turned-politician, formed the first coalition government in Tamil Nadu's history with support from the Congress, VCK, Left parties, and the Muslim League.