By South Matters Political Desk | Tamil Nadu
The Tamil Nadu TASMAC Shops Closure drive reached a major milestone on Friday as the state government shut down all 717 identified liquor outlets located near schools, colleges, places of worship and bus stands.
The move fulfills one of the early promises made by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay after taking office. The government said the decision aims to create safer public spaces and reduce the impact of liquor outlets on students and families.
Tamil Nadu TASMAC Shops Closure Fulfills Election Promise
According to official figures, authorities closed 717 TASMAC outlets across the state. The closures include 276 shops near religious places, 186 near educational institutions and 255 near bus terminals.
As a result, several residential and public areas will no longer have liquor outlets operating close to sensitive locations.
Employees Redeployed After TASMAC Shop Closures
The closure of the liquor outlets affected 3,474 employees. However, the government redeployed most workers to other TASMAC locations.
Officials stated that the transition would help protect jobs while implementing the policy decision. Therefore, the government expects minimal disruption to employees.
Residents Welcome Tamil Nadu TASMAC Shops Closure
Many residents welcomed the move and said it would improve the environment around schools and places of worship.
Meanwhile, some activists and opposition voices demanded greater transparency. They urged the government to release a public list of all closed shops to ensure proper implementation of the policy.
Vijay Government Pushes TASMAC Reforms
The closure drive marks one of the first major TASMAC reforms under the TVK-led government. Furthermore, political observers believe the move strengthens the government’s commitment to election promises.
The administration has indicated that additional reforms may follow as part of broader efforts to improve public welfare and regulate liquor sales across Tamil Nadu.