📌 Key Points
- Tamil Nadu CM Vijay ordered the closure of 717 state-run liquor shops within two weeks.
- The targeted shops are primarily located near educational institutions, places of worship, and bus stations.
- Actors Kamal Haasan and Vishal publicly supported CM Vijay’s decision, praising it for public welfare.
- Despite liquor sales generating ₹48,344 crore in 2025, the CM prioritized public safety and well-being.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has mandated the closure of 717 state-run liquor shops, particularly those near schools and temples. This significant move, aimed at public welfare, has garnered strong support from prominent actors Kamal Haasan and Vishal, who praised the decision as a positive step for the state.
CM Vijay’s Landmark Decision on Liquor Outlets
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 state-run retail liquor outlets, including 276 shops near places of worship.
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. Liquor sales is one of government’s key revenue generators in Tamil Nadu. 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.
Kamal Haasan & Vishal Praise Public Welfare Move
He wrote, “Kudos to you, whistles to u. Hats off to u. Dear CM Joseph Vijay Avargal. Thank u for the announcement to close 717 wine shops especially the ones near schools. Wat a move. So many girl children have been facing harassment, especially the one I know in RK Nagar, where a girl student was complaining of having to go through the stress of crossing the Tasmac store and reaching home every day. She and so many of the common public will hail you and your decision. With a smile on so many faces including mine with this decision of our CM will be everlasting from this menace. God bless u dearest #vijay. #thalapathyvijay #CMjosephvijay . I salute u and your government today.”
Why has Vijay ordered closure of liquor shops?
Understanding Tamil Nadu’s Liquor Revenue
The CM has directed that the order is executed within two weeks for the welfare of the public, according to the release. “Currently, 4,765 liquor retail shops are being operated by the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC). Among these, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, S Joseph Vijay, ordered an audit to identify shops located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stations,” an official release said on Tuesday.
In 2025, the revenue from liquor sales in Tamil Nadu was ₹ 48,344 crore. TASMAC sells 551 brands of liquor imported from foreign countries, including 223 brands of wine being sold through licensed retail outlets. Vijay’s party manifesto had promised efforts to make Tamil Nadu drug-free.
CM Vijay’s decisive action to close liquor shops marks a significant step towards public welfare in Tamil Nadu. The widespread celebrity and public support highlight the positive reception, signaling a hopeful change for communities, especially near educational and religious institutions.
