Tamil Nadu’s newly elected Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has wasted no time delivering on his biggest election promise. Just two days after taking oath as Chief Minister, Vijay launched one of the biggest liquor control drives in the state by ordering the closure of 717 government-run TASMAC liquor shops located near schools, temples, mosques, churches, and bus stands.
After assuming office, Vijay ordered a survey of all TASMAC liquor shops to identify those operating within a 500-metre radius of places of worship, including mosques, temples, and churches, educational institutions, and bus stands. The survey identified 717 shops currently violating these proximity norms.
Of the 717 outlets, 276 are near places of worship, 186 are near educational institutions, and 255 are near bus stands, all ordered shut within two weeks.
For Tamil Nadu’s Muslim community, this decision carries special significance. Liquor shops located near mosques have long been a source of deep discomfort for Muslim families and worshippers. Friday prayers, Eid gatherings, and daily prayers are religious moments that many Muslims feel are being disturbed by the presence of alcohol outlets in proximity to their places of worship. Muslim organisations and scholars in Tamil Nadu had repeatedly raised this concern with previous governments, with little action taken.
Concerns over alcohol accessibility near schools, public transport hubs, and residential areas have also been raised for years by parents, social activists, women’s groups, and community organisations across all faiths.
The decision is not without financial implications. Currently, 4,765 retail liquor shops are operated by TASMAC, which remains one of the largest sources of revenue for the Tamil Nadu government. However, Vijay has prioritised public welfare over profit.
His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), had prominently featured anti-liquor and public welfare commitments in its election manifesto, promising a drug-free Tamil Nadu. TASMAC has also been under scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate over alleged money laundering and financial irregularities.
This bold early move, protecting mosques, temples, churches, and schools equally, sends a clear message that Vijay’s government stands for every community, placing people’s dignity and safety firmly above state revenue.
