Chennai, May 13 — In a significant policy decision, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has reportedly directed the closure of 717 government-run liquor outlets across the state, marking one of the largest reductions in retail alcohol availability in recent years.
According to official sources, the directive has been issued as part of a broader effort to regulate alcohol distribution, address public health concerns, and respond to long-standing demands from various social and community groups seeking stricter control over liquor sales. The move is expected to be implemented in phases, with priority given to outlets located near schools, religious institutions, and densely populated residential areas.
The state-run liquor distribution body, TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation), has been instructed to identify the listed outlets and begin closure procedures after completing inventory audits and revenue reconciliation. Authorities have also indicated that employees affected by the shutdown will be reassigned to other functioning outlets where possible.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions across the state. Temperance advocacy groups and health activists have welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward reducing alcohol-related harm. However, sections of the hospitality sector and retail stakeholders have raised concerns about potential revenue loss for the state and the impact on workers dependent on the industry.
Political observers note that this move could have wider implications ahead of future electoral cycles, as alcohol policy remains a sensitive and influential issue in Tamil Nadu politics.
Further details regarding the timeline and exact locations of the affected shops are expected to be released by the government in the coming days.
— MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN
