Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Orders Closure of 717 Liquor Shops Near Temples, Schools and Bus Stands

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has directed authorities to shut 717 TASMAC liquor outlets located near temples, schools and bus stands within two weeks as part of his government’s anti-drug and public welfare drive.

Chennai | May 12, 2026 |

In one of the first major administrative decisions after assuming office, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor shops functioning near sensitive public locations across the state. According to official sources, the outlets identified for closure are situated within a 500-metre radius of places of worship, educational institutions and bus stands. The directive mandates authorities to complete the shutdown process within the next two weeks.

The decision comes just days after Vijay took oath as Chief Minister following the victory of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), in the recently concluded Assembly elections. The move is being viewed as a significant step towards fulfilling the party’s electoral promise of creating a drug-free and socially responsible Tamil Nadu.

Government data revealed that among the 717 liquor outlets marked for closure, 276 shops were located near temples and other religious places, 186 near schools and colleges, and 255 close to bus stands. Officials said inspections were carried out across districts following instructions from the Chief Minister’s Office.

Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), the state-run body responsible for liquor sales, currently operates thousands of retail outlets across Tamil Nadu. The latest order is expected to impact liquor availability in densely populated and high-footfall areas while addressing long-standing concerns raised by residents, social organisations and religious groups.

Political observers believe the decision signals Vijay’s attempt to establish a governance model focused on public welfare, law and order, and social reform. The government has also initiated discussions on stricter anti-drug measures and public safety initiatives since the new administration assumed office. The closure order has triggered widespread political discussion in the state, with supporters hailing it as a bold reform measure while opposition parties are expected to closely watch its implementation in the coming weeks.

Follow us On Our Social media Handles :
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

Also Read- Pune