Chennai: In a major move aimed at tightening liquor regulation in the state, C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets operating near temples, educational institutions and bus stands across Tamil Nadu.
According to officials, the identified liquor shops are located within a 500-metre radius of sensitive public places, including religious centres, schools, colleges and major transport hubs. The state government has directed authorities to complete the closure process within the next two weeks.
The decision follows a statewide inspection conducted by officials after instructions from the chief minister. The survey revealed that 276 TASMAC outlets were functioning close to places of worship, while 186 shops were located near schools and colleges. Another 255 liquor outlets were found operating near bus stands, taking the total number of affected shops to 717.
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At present, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) manages 4,765 retail liquor outlets across the state. Officials stated that the latest action is intended to ensure stricter compliance with regulations governing liquor sales and to address growing public concerns regarding the presence of alcohol shops near socially sensitive areas.
The state administration believes the move will help improve public safety, maintain the sanctity of religious places and create a more suitable environment around educational institutions and transport centres in Tamil Nadu.
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