Chennai, May 12,2026 : C. Joseph Vijay on Tuesday ordered the closure of 717 retail liquor outlets operating across Tamil Nadu, citing public welfare and growing concerns raised by citizens.
According to an official release, the decision targets liquor outlets located near sensitive public spaces and institutions. The shops will be shut down within the next two weeks.
The closures include:
• 276 liquor shops situated near places of worship
• 186 outlets located close to educational institutions
• 255 liquor shops operating near bus stands
The move comes amid increasing public pressure, particularly from women’s groups and several political parties, demanding stricter regulation and gradual closure of liquor outlets across the state.
Liquor sales in Tamil Nadu are managed by the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, commonly known as TASMAC, which currently operates around 4,765 retail liquor outlets throughout the state.
The government said the decision was taken keeping public welfare, social concerns and community sentiments in mind.
The announcement has sparked fresh debate over liquor regulation, public health and state revenue dependence on alcohol sales in Tamil Nadu.
