In a major policy decision aimed at strengthening public welfare and regulating alcohol accessibility, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor outlets located near schools, educational institutions, bus stations, and places of worship across the state.

The move, announced shortly after Vijay assumed office as chief minister, is being viewed as one of the first major governance initiatives under the new administration. Authorities have been directed to complete the shutdown process within the next two weeks.

According to official government data, Tamil Nadu currently operates thousands of TASMAC-run liquor retail outlets under the state-controlled alcohol distribution system. Following a detailed audit ordered by the chief minister, officials identified hundreds of shops functioning within a 500-meter radius of sensitive public locations, including educational campuses, transport hubs, and religious establishments.

The government stated that 276 liquor outlets were found operating near places of worship, 186 near schools and educational institutions, and 255 near bus stands and major transport points. These outlets have now been marked for closure in what officials describe as a public-interest measure focused on community welfare and social responsibility.

The decision is expected to have a significant social and political impact across Tamil Nadu, where TASMAC outlets have long remained a contentious issue. Residents’ associations, women’s groups, social activists, and educational organizations have repeatedly raised concerns over liquor shops operating close to schools and densely populated public spaces. 

The administration believes the closures will help reduce public nuisance, improve safety near educational zones, and limit exposure of minors and students to alcohol-related activities. Government officials also indicated that the policy aligns with the ruling party’s broader commitment to creating a healthier and drug-free social environment.

The order comes only days after Vijay formally took oath as chief minister. During the election campaign, his party had promised stricter regulation of liquor sales and stronger anti-drug initiatives as part of its governance agenda. Political observers see the TASMAC closure order as an attempt to quickly demonstrate administrative action on campaign promises and public concerns.

Officials have also hinted that authorities may monitor nearby liquor outlets to prevent overcrowding or illegal redistribution following the closure of the identified shops. The administration is expected to conduct further inspections in urban and semi-urban regions to ensure compliance with the directive.

The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation, commonly known as TASMAC, operates as the state’s official liquor retail network and remains a major source of revenue for the government. However, the presence of liquor shops near schools, religious sites, and transportation hubs has repeatedly triggered public debate over social welfare, safety, and addiction concerns.

The latest move by the Tamil Nadu government has already generated strong reactions from political parties, social activists, and sections of the public. Supporters of the decision have described it as a bold administrative step prioritizing public interest, women’s safety, and youth welfare. Critics, however, are expected to closely watch how the closures affect state revenue and alcohol availability in nearby areas.

The closure order marks one of the most significant liquor regulation decisions in Tamil Nadu in recent years and signals the Vijay administration’s intention to pursue visible policy interventions early in its tenure.