TVK Govt Will Not Yield to Tasmac Pressure Tactics, Says Minister K Vignesh

CHENNAI — Prohibition and excise minister K Vignesh on Thursday stated that the TVK government will not cow down to pressure tactics aimed at allowing corruption and monopolies of specific liquor brands in Tasmac.

Speaking to reporters in Chennai after releasing a list of 717 liquor shops closed across Tamil Nadu since the TVK formed the government, the minister explained that several department measures have been implemented to eradicate monopolies and ensure equal opportunities for all stakeholders.

Addressing issues regarding retail pricing, the minister stated that discussions are scheduled with workers' representatives. The government plans to meet with Tasmac workers’ union representatives on Monday to consider their demands and put an end to MRP violations. However, the minister warned that any attempts to use pressure tactics to permit corruption would lead to strict consequences.

The issue was also raised in the state assembly during a calling attention motion moved by PMK MLA A Ganeshkumar concerning liquor outlets operating within 500 metres of schools and temples. Opposition MLAs demanded specific details regarding the 717 closed shops, which the minister promised to provide by the evening.

Following the release of the list, Minister Vignesh noted that the department is actively collecting details on liquor shops operating in the vicinity of schools and temples. These outlets will be relocated rather than shut down entirely, as direct closures would cause overcrowding at nearby shops and create a public nuisance.