Tamil Nadu: In Tamil Nadu, liquor retail stores are being closed in a phased manner across the state as per a government order. So far, 436 liquor stores and their associated bars have been closed as part of this process, according to K. Vignesh, the state’s Prohibition and Excise Minister.
According to information, the order to close a total of 717 liquor retail stores in Tamil Nadu was issued on May 11. This order applies to stores operating near educational institutions, religious sites, and bus stands. The government believes that the sale of alcohol near these locations could negatively impact social and public order.
This order was issued when the new government took office following a change of administration in the state. Action was initiated the day after Chief Minister Joseph Vijay assumed office. Following this, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) was given the responsibility of closing these stores.
A meeting was held at the headquarters of the Tamil Nadu State Chamber of Commerce on Saturday to review the matter. The meeting was chaired by Prohibition and Excise Minister K. Vignesh. The meeting reviewed the actions taken so far and discussed future plans.
Minister K. Vignesh directed officials to complete the process of closing the remaining liquor retail shops and their associated bars as soon as possible. He stated that the government’s objective is to ensure effective compliance with the order and the complete elimination of liquor sales at designated locations.
The Minister also suggested that the interests of the employees working at the shops being closed be taken into consideration. He urged officials to accommodate the employees in other nearby liquor shops without any loss of income, so that their livelihoods are not adversely affected.
According to government officials, the reorganization of the closed shops and the adjustment of the employees is a significant administrative challenge, which is being addressed expeditiously. The government aims to complete the entire process smoothly and systematically.
The process of closing remaining shops in the state is currently underway, and more steps are expected in the coming days. The administration says this decision was taken in the public interest and to maintain social balance.
