Newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of over 700 liquor shops in the state, directing the execution of the order within two weeks. Actors Kamal Haasan and Vishal have shown support for Vijay's move as the new CM of Tamil Nadu, adding the common public will thank him for this decision.
Liquor sales is one of government's key revenue generators in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) operates 4,765 liquor retail shops in the state, among which the Chief Minister has ordered an audit to identify shops located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stations.
Vijay's party manifesto had promised efforts to make Tamil Nadu drug-free. The revenue from liquor sales in Tamil Nadu was ₹48,344 crore in 2025. TASMAC sells 551 brands of liquor imported from foreign countries, including 223 brands of wine being sold through licensed retail outlets.
Kamal Haasan and Vishal have praised Vijay's decision, citing the harassment faced by girl students crossing TASMAC liquor shops. The Chief Minister has directed that the order is executed within two weeks for the welfare of the public.
