Tamil Nadu CM Orders Closure of 717 Liquor Outlets Near Schools, Temples

Chennai, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay ordered the closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor retail outlets located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions and bus stands across the state, directing authorities to complete the process within two weeks.

The decision, announced on May 12 through an official release from the Tamil Nadu government, followed a statewide survey of the 4,765 TASMAC outlets. The survey identified 276 shops near places of worship such as temples, mosques and churches; 186 near schools and colleges; and 255 near bus stands and transport hubs. District administrations and TASMAC officials have been instructed to implement the closures immediately and submit compliance reports within the deadline.

Vijay, a 51-year-old actor-turned-politician, issued the order shortly after assuming office. He was sworn in as chief minister on May 10 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, leading the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which emerged as the single largest party in the recent assembly elections. TVK formed a coalition government with support from Congress, Left parties, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and the Indian Union Muslim...