Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has taken a major and controversial decision within days of assuming office, ordering the closure of 717 liquor shops operating in violation of government regulations across the state. The directive, issued on Tuesday, mandates that the outlets be permanently shut within the next two weeks. The move has created a major political stir, as liquor sales contribute significantly to the state’s revenue.
According to the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), the decision was taken keeping public welfare, women’s safety, and student protection in mind. The government clarified that no liquor outlets should function within a 500-meter radius of schools, colleges, places of worship, or busy public locations such as bus stands. Officials said the administration acted following repeated complaints from the public regarding inconvenience caused by liquor shops near sensitive areas.
Liquor sales in Tamil Nadu are operated through the state-run Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation. Government data shows that 4,765 TASMAC retail outlets are currently functioning across the state. A recent survey identified 717 shops violating location norms, including 276 near temples, mosques, and churches, 255 near bus stands, and 186 close to schools and colleges. Authorities have now been directed to complete the closure process within 14 days.
“Public welfare is our government’s top priority. Liquor sales near educational institutions and religious places are unacceptable,” Chief Minister Vijay reportedly told officials while issuing the orders. The responsibility of monitoring the implementation has been assigned to the Excise Department. The government also signaled that social welfare and public safety would take precedence even if the move impacts state revenue.
The decision has received a positive response from several sections of society, particularly women, parents, and teachers. Education experts believe that removing liquor outlets from areas near schools and colleges would help create a safer and healthier atmosphere for students. The development has also sparked discussions in neighboring states such as Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where similar concerns over liquor shops near educational institutions have frequently been raised.