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

C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 government-run TASMAC liquor outlets located within a 500-metre radius of:

• religious places
• educational institutions
• and bus stations across Tamil Nadu.

The directive was issued on Tuesday, with authorities instructed to complete the closures within the next two weeks.

The move is being seen as one of the strongest liquor-control decisions taken by the newly formed Tamil Nadu government.

Why the TASMAC Shops Are Being Closed

According to officials, the decision aims to:

• reduce public nuisance near sensitive areas
• improve safety around schools and colleges
• address concerns raised by local residents and social groups
• strengthen regulation of alcohol accessibility.

The affected outlets belong to:
Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, commonly known as TASMAC.

TASMAC controls the retail sale of liquor across Tamil Nadu through state-operated shops.

Focus on Women’s Safety and Anti-Drug Measures

The liquor-shop closure order comes shortly after CM Vijay announced the creation of the:

“Singa Pen Sirappu Anti-Drug Force”

The special force has been established to:

• improve women’s safety
• crack down on drug networks
• prevent substance abuse among youth
• and strengthen action against sexual crimes.

Following the Chief Minister’s directive, the Tamil Nadu Police formally constituted the unit.

What Will the New Anti-Drug Force Do?

The newly formed force has been assigned several responsibilities, including:

1. Action Against Drug Mafia

The unit will target illegal drug networks and suppliers operating across the state.

2. Women’s Safety Monitoring

Special teams will respond quickly to complaints involving:

• harassment
• abuse
• stalking
• and crimes against women.

3. Awareness Campaigns

Officials will conduct programmes in:

• schools
• colleges
• public spaces

to spread awareness regarding:

• women’s safety
• drug abuse
• and public vigilance.

Women Police Personnel Given Key Role

A major highlight of the initiative is the increased deployment of women police officers.

According to officials:

• women personnel will receive special operational powers
• dedicated teams will handle sensitive complaints
• and rapid response systems will be strengthened statewide.

Political Significance of the Move

The decision aligns with several promises made by C Joseph Vijay during the election campaign, particularly regarding:

• public safety
• anti-drug enforcement
• youth protection
• and social reform measures.

The closure of liquor shops near schools and religious places has long been demanded by:

• parents’ associations
• religious organisations
• and anti-liquor activists in Tamil Nadu.

Possible Impact Across Tamil Nadu

The move could significantly affect:

• alcohol retail accessibility in urban areas
• pedestrian safety near schools and bus depots
• local traffic congestion around TASMAC shops
• and public order concerns.