717 liquor shops ordered to be closed in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu: The Tamil Nadu government has taken a major administrative decision and ordered the closure of 717 liquor retail stores in the state. This order was taken at the initiative of Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijayan, with the stated aim of ensuring a controlled environment around public places.

According to the government order, all liquor stores operating within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands have been identified. Stores located near these locations have been specifically identified and action has been taken. The Chief Minister has given clear instructions that all such stores be closed within two weeks.

A press release issued by the Tamil Nadu government states that a total of 4,765 liquor retail stores are operated in the state through the Tamil Nadu State Chamber of Commerce and Industry. After inspecting these stores, it was found that 717 stores were located in sensitive areas, violating the prescribed social distancing norms.

As part of this process, the government conducted a detailed survey, mapping shops located near places of worship, schools, colleges, and bus stands. The report identified liquor shops within 500 meters of these locations, following which orders were issued to close them.

The Chief Minister has also directed officials to not allow any new liquor shops in such areas and to ensure strict adherence to existing regulations. The relevant departments have been asked to ensure that the closure process is completed within the stipulated timeframe.

Following the government’s decision, administrative action has begun in the state. The relevant departments have been instructed to identify the shops and initiate the immediate closure process.

The government has described this decision as a step taken in the public interest and social order, to control activities in sensitive areas.