India: New Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Orders Closure of 717 Liquor Stores in Push for “Drug-Free” State

Chennai — In a bold opening move, newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has ordered the immediate closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor outlets located near schools, temples and bus stands — signalling his administration’s strong intent to deliver on campaign promises of a cleaner, drug-free state.
The directive, issued within days of taking office, forms part of Vijay’s flagship “Drug-Free Tamil Nadu” agenda, which resonated deeply with voters — particularly women and families — during the recent state elections.
The targeted outlets were identified as being in sensitive locations deemed harmful to public morality and youth welfare. TASMAC, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, operates a near-monopoly on alcohol retail in the state and is a major source of government revenue, generating hundreds of billions of rupees annually.
Critics and opposition politicians have raised concerns over the potential revenue shortfall, while economists warn that closures must be accompanied by broader social support programmes to be truly effective.
However, supporters of the new chief minister argue that protecting communities — especially children and youth from alcohol’s harmful influence — outweighs short-term fiscal considerations.
Political observers note that Vijay’s swift action sends a powerful message that his government intends to govern differently, though the real test will lie in sustaining momentum against deeply entrenched liquor industry interests.