In a major decision aimed at public welfare, C. Joseph Vijay on Tuesday ordered the closure of 717 retail liquor outlets operated by the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation across Tamil Nadu.
According to an official release, the move was taken keeping public welfare in mind. Authorities have been directed to shut down the outlets within the next two weeks.
The closures include 276 liquor shops located near places of worship, 186 outlets situated close to educational institutions, and 255 shops operating near bus stands.
The decision comes amid growing public demand, particularly from women and several political parties, seeking the closure of liquor shops across the state.
Currently, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation operates 4,765 retail liquor outlets throughout Tamil Nadu. The latest move is being viewed as a significant step towards addressing social concerns linked to liquor consumption and accessibility.
