Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay orderس closure of 700+ government liquor shops across the state

Web Desk
May 13, 2026

In his first major move after assuming office, former film superstar and newly sworn-in Chief Minister of India’s Tamil Nadu state, Joseph Vijay, has ordered the closure of more than 700 government-run liquor shops across the state.

The decision marks a significant shift in the state’s alcohol policy and fulfills a key promise made by his political party ahead of the recent elections.

Which Liquor Shops Were Shut Down?

According to Indian media reports, CM Vijay ordered the closure of 717 liquor shops that were established within 500 meters of temples, schools, and bus stands.

These shops were operated under the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), the state government’s monopoly retail chain for alcoholic beverages. Officials have been directed to ensure the complete shutdown of these outlets within two weeks.

Why This Decision?

CM Vijay’s move is being widely interpreted as an effort to:

Reduce alcohol consumption across the state
Curb social problems associated with easy access to liquor
Control law and order issues often linked to TASMAC outlets
Fulfill one of his major electoral promises

Political analysts note that while Tamil Nadu has historically had high revenues from alcohol sales, there has been a growing demand from civil society, particularly women’s groups, to restrict the number of outlets near sensitive public places.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media

The decision has provoked a mixed response from the public and political circles:

Supporters Say	Critics Say
A bold step in the public interest	A move to cut government revenue
Will protect students and worshippers	Could increase illegal bootlegging
Honors election promises	Might not actually reduce drinking

“This is a welcome move. Schools and temples should not have liquor shops nearby. Governments have ignored this for too long.” – Social media user

“This is just to cut government costs. People will still drink, they’ll just buy from illegal sources now.” – Another user

Vijay’s Political Journey

Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s most bankable stars, formally launched his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), in February 2024 after months of groundwork.

In his political debut, he led the party to a stunning victory in the recent state elections, winning 108 seats in the 234-member legislative assembly. Despite falling just short of an outright majority, he secured the support of allied parties, allowing him to form the government.

His oath-taking ceremony earlier this week was a grand event attended by thousands of fans and major political figures from across India.

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What’s Next?

CM Vijay’s cabinet is expected to announce further measures in the coming weeks, aimed at:

Strengthening public health infrastructure to treat alcohol addiction
Shifting revenue focus from liquor sales to other sectors
Enforcing stricter regulations on remaining TASMAC shops

Whether the closure of 717 shops will lead to a measurable reduction in drinking or simply drive drinkers to illegal sources remains to be seen. For now, the new Chief Minister has made it clear: his administration will prioritize social welfare over revenue from vices.