(Image source from: Newsarenaindia.com)

In his first significant administrative action after becoming the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Joseph Vijay instructed on Tuesday that 717 government-operated liquor stores be closed. These stores are located close to places of worship, schools, and bus stations throughout the state. The directive requires officials to shut down all Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) shops situated within 500 meters of temples, mosques, churches, schools, colleges, and bus stops within the next two weeks. The Tamil Nadu government reports that there are currently 4,765 Tasmac liquor shops in the state. Out of the 717 shops slated for closure, 276 are near places of worship, 186 are close to educational facilities, and 255 are by bus stands.

This action represents Vijay's first significant policy move shortly after he took on the role, and the new government is presenting it as an important social reform aimed at tackling worries about the availability of alcohol in sensitive public spaces. Vijay, who is 51 years old and previously an actor, was sworn in as Chief Minister on Sunday after his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) achieved a remarkable electoral success, becoming the largest party in the state. With backing from Congress, Left parties, VCK, and the Muslim League, TVK has established the first coalition government ever in Tamil Nadu.