Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Orders Closure of 717 TASMAC Liquor Shops Near Schools and Temples

In his first major policy decision after taking office, C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 government-run liquor outlets operating near schools, places of worship and bus stands across Tamil Nadu. The move is being seen as an early attempt by the new government to address public concerns over liquor accessibility and social welfare.

The order was issued to the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, popularly known as Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, which manages liquor sales in the state through thousands of retail outlets. Officials said the identified shops allegedly violated distance regulations meant to prevent liquor outlets from functioning close to sensitive public locations.

According to government sources, the closure process has been directed to be completed within two weeks. Authorities stated that the affected outlets were located within a 500-metre radius of schools, temples, mosques, churches and major transport points such as bus stands. A survey conducted by the administration reportedly identified hundreds of shops falling within restricted zones.

Out of the 717 outlets marked for closure, a significant number were situated near religious institutions and educational establishments. Officials clarified that the decision would not affect the operation of other TASMAC shops that comply with state regulations.

The announcement came only days after Vijay assumed office following the victory of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, in the 2026 Assembly elections. During the election campaign, Vijay had repeatedly criticised the previous administration’s handling of TASMAC operations and promised reforms aimed at improving transparency and reducing public inconvenience linked to liquor outlets.

Political analysts believe the move is designed to project a strong governance image at the beginning of Vijay’s tenure. The closure of liquor shops near public institutions has long been a demand raised by women’s organisations, resident welfare groups and social activists in Tamil Nadu. Several campaigners have argued that easy access to alcohol near schools and residential zones creates social and safety concerns.

The decision also sparked reactions from members of the Tamil film industry and political circles. Actor-politician Kamal Haasan and actor Vishal publicly welcomed the initiative, calling it a positive step toward public welfare and responsible governance. Despite the closures, officials emphasised that TASMAC would continue to function through its remaining outlets across the state. Revenue from liquor sales remains one of the Tamil Nadu government’s major sources of income, making reforms in the sector politically sensitive and economically significant.

The latest decision has revived discussions over liquor regulation and prohibition policies in Tamil Nadu. Previous governments had also undertaken phased closures of TASMAC outlets, though complete prohibition has remained a contentious issue due to concerns about revenue loss and illegal liquor trade. With this directive, Vijay has signalled that regulating liquor sales and restructuring TASMAC operations could become one of the key priorities of his administration in the coming years.