Just days after taking oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay has taken one of the biggest early decisions of his government by ordering the closure of hundreds of TASMAC liquor shops located near temples, schools, colleges and bus stations.
The move has quickly triggered debate across the state, with supporters calling it a strong public welfare step while others question how far the government is willing to go on liquor policy reforms.
Chennai , May 12: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has directed the closure of 717 government-run TASMAC liquor shops situated within 500 metres of religious places, educational institutions and bus stands across the state.
As per reports, the order has been issued in the interest of public welfare, and officials have been instructed to complete the process within two weeks.The decision is being seen as one of the first major administrative actions taken by Vijay after assuming office as Chief Minister.
TASMAC, the state-run liquor retail network, operates thousands of alcohol outlets across Tamil Nadu and remains one of the government’s biggest sources of revenue.
However, the issue has also remained politically sensitive for years due to repeated public complaints over liquor shops located near residential areas, schools, places of worship and crowded public spaces.
During election campaigns over the years, several political parties and social organisations demanded stricter control over TASMAC operations, arguing that easy access to liquor contributes to social and family problems in many communities. The latest move by Vijay appears aimed at balancing public sentiment with the state’s dependence on liquor revenue.
Officials said the closure order specifically targets shops operating near sensitive public locations such as temples, churches, mosques, schools, colleges and major bus stations.
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While the government has not announced total prohibition, the decision signals a tougher approach toward the location and regulation of liquor outlets.Political observers believe the move also carries symbolic importance because it comes immediately after Vijay assumed office, allowing the new administration to project an image of quick decision-making on an issue that directly affects ordinary people.
Many supporters of Vijay welcomed the announcement online, saying it reflects promises made during the election campaign regarding public welfare and social concerns linked to alcohol accessibility.
At the same time, questions remain over whether the affected TASMAC outlets will be permanently shut or shifted to other areas outside the restricted zones.
The Tamil Nadu government is yet to release a detailed implementation plan, but the announcement has already become one of the most discussed early decisions of Vijay’s new government.
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