Chennai, May 12, 2026: In his first significant policy decision since assuming office as Chief Minister, Tamil Nadu leader C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the immediate closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor shops located near sensitive public places.
The directive, issued on Monday, targets outlets situated within 500 metres of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands. According to official figures, the 717 shops include:
- 276 near religious places (temples, churches, mosques and other places of worship)
- 186 near schools, colleges and other educational institutions
- 255 near bus stands
The order follows a comprehensive statewide survey of 4,765 TASMAC outlets. All identified shops have been instructed to shut down within the next two weeks.
This move is being widely viewed as a strong signal of the new TVK-led government’s focus on social welfare and public health, particularly addressing concerns over alcohol consumption near sensitive locations that affect families, students and devotees.
Strong Public and Political Reactions
Supporters have welcomed the decision as a decisive and people-friendly step that prioritises societal well-being over revenue. Many on social media described it as a “welcome first step” towards reducing alcohol-related social issues in the state.
However, some critics have pointed out that similar rules prohibiting liquor shops near schools and temples have existed for years, with previous governments also announcing closures from time to time. They argue the move, while symbolically important, needs sustained enforcement to make a real difference.
Tamil Nadu’s Complex Relationship with Liquor
The announcement comes against the backdrop of Tamil Nadu’s long and contradictory history with alcohol policy. The state was among the first in India to experiment with prohibition in the 1930s, but later became heavily dependent on revenue from TASMAC, the state-owned corporation that holds a monopoly on liquor retail.
With this early action, Chief Minister Vijay appears to be setting the tone for his administration — focusing on visible, welfare-oriented reforms that resonate with the public’s growing demand for better regulation of alcohol sales.
Further details on district-wise closures and the fate of affected employees are expected to be released by the state excise department in the coming days. The development continues to dominate headlines and trending discussions across Tamil Nadu.
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