TVK Govt's Liquor Outlet Closure a Major Win: Minister

Liquor Outlet Closure Major Win for TVK Govt: Minister

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister KA Sengottaiyan hailed the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets as a major achievement of the TVK government under Chief Minister Joseph Vijay. The outlets were located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stations. Vijay has retained key portfolios including Home, Police, and General Administration in the cabinet allocation. The TVK won 108 seats in the recent election and secured support from allies to form the government.

ANI

May 17, 2026 · 2 min read · 78 views

Closure of liquor outlets marks 'major achievement' of TVK govt, says Finance Minister KA Sengottaiyan

Coimbatore, May 17

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister KA Sengottaiyan on Sunday said that the closure of liquor outlets marks a major achievement of the Chief Minister Joseph Vijay led TVK government soon after taking charge.

Speaking to reporters after arriving at Coimbatore airport, Sengottaiyan said, "The Chief Minister analysed the locations of TASMAC shops situated near temples and schools and ordered their removal; this marks a major achievement accomplished by Joseph Vijay within such a short span of time after taking the oath as Chief Minister."

Earlier, newly elected Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay ordered the closure of 717 government-run TASMAC liquor retail outlets located within a 500-metre radius of places of worship, educational institutions and bus stations in the state within two weeks, citing public welfare.

After assuming the office of CM, Vijay ordered a survey of TASMAC liquor shops to identify the ones operating near places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu government has allocated portfolios to the Ministers in the State Cabinet, where Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has kept several key departments under himself.

The Council of Ministers was sworn in on May 10.

The allocation formally distributes responsibilities among the newly sworn-in Council of Ministers, outlining the administrative structure of the Tamil Nadu government.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has kept the portfolios of Public, General Administration, Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, Indian Forest Service, District Revenue Officers, Police, Home, Special Programme Implementation, Women Welfare, Youth Welfare, Welfare of Children, Aged, Differently Abled Persons, Municipal Administration, and Urban and Water Supply.

The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam achieved historic success in the recently concluded Tamil Nadu elections, as it emerged as the single largest party in the assembly, winning 108 seats. Meanwhile, TVK was ten short of majority mark 118; it received support from other parties, including Congress, VCK, Left parties and IUML.

— ANI

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Reader Comments

Priya S

It's a good first step, but let's be real - closing 717 shops is just a drop in the ocean. There are thousands of TASMAC outlets across Tamil Nadu. Also, what about the revenue loss? The government needs to have a proper plan for alternate revenue sources and rehabilitation for those who depend on these jobs. Still, happy to see some positive change.

Karthik V

Thalaiva for a reason! 😎 Joseph Vijay is walking the talk. Within two weeks of becoming CM, he's already making bold moves. The survey to identify shops near sensitive locations shows proper planning. Hope he keeps the same energy for other promises too. Tamil Nadu needs this kind of governance.

Manish T

I appreciate the intention, but this seems more like a populist move than a sustainable solution. Alcoholism is a complex social issue - closing shops near temples doesn't solve the underlying problems. What about stricter licensing, higher taxes, or better rehabilitation programs? I hope the TVK government has a comprehensive plan beyond just photo-ops and headlines.

Varun X

Finally some common sense! My college had a TASMAC just 200 meters away. Students would skip classes and hang out there. This is a long-overdue reform. But I'm worried about the 717 families who work at these shops - hope the government has a rehab or relocation plan for them. Otherwise, good job CM Vijay! 🎯

Nisha Z

As someone from a family that lost a member to alcohol addiction, this hits close to home. I know it's a small step, but it shows the government cares about public welfare. The location near temples and schools was always problematic - kids shouldn't have to see drunk people on their

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Liquor Outlet Closure Major Win for TVK Govt: Minister

Closure of liquor outlets marks 'major achievement' of TVK govt, says Finance Minister KA Sengottaiyan

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