Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets located near religious institutions and educational establishments across the state, reinforcing the government’s focus on public welfare and social responsibility.
The decision is aimed at addressing long-standing concerns around the proximity of liquor shops to schools, colleges, temples, mosques, churches and other sensitive public spaces. The move is also being viewed as part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen regulation around alcohol retailing and public safety.
According to reports, the closures will be implemented in phases following administrative review and compliance checks by concerned departments. The state government has indicated that the decision aligns with its commitment to prioritising social welfare, public sentiment and community wellbeing.
Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), which operates liquor retail outlets across the state, remains one of the largest revenue contributors for the Tamil Nadu government. However, the issue of outlet locations and accessibility has frequently drawn criticism from residents, social organisations and political groups.
The latest directive is expected to have an impact on local retail distribution patterns and could lead to relocation strategies for affected outlets in compliant zones.
