CM Vijay orders closure of 717 liquor shops within 500 metres of temples, schools and bus stands

Joseph Vijay on Tuesday ordered the closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor shops located within 500 metres of places of worship, educational institutions and bus stands across Tamil Nadu. The directive was issued within days of Vijay assuming office as Chief Minister and marks the first major administrative decision of the new government. Authorities have been instructed to complete the closure process within two weeks.

According to the Tamil Nadu government, the state currently operates 4,765 TASMAC liquor outlets. Of the 717 identified for closure, 276 are located near religious places, 186 near educational institutions and 255 near bus stands. The government stated that the decision was taken keeping public welfare and accessibility concerns in mind.

The move comes amid long-standing political and public discussions over liquor sales and regulation in the state. TASMAC liquor sales contribute significantly to state revenue, with total collections crossing ₹48,000 crore in 2025. Vijay had earlier spoken about creating an “addiction-free” Tamil Nadu during the Assembly election campaign.

Political leaders from different parties reacted to the decision after the announcement. Kamal Haasan welcomed the closure order and called for stronger regulation of liquor sales in the state. Congress leader Manickam Tagore also described the move as a response to long-standing public demands related to safety near schools, temples and bus stands.

Following the Assembly elections, Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam formed the government in Tamil Nadu with support from Congress, Left parties, VCK and the Muslim League. Apart from the liquor shop closure order, the new Chief Minister also approved measures including 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers, formation of anti-drug units in every district and establishment of a special force focused on women’s safety.