Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Orders Shutdown of 717 TASMAC Shops Near Schools, Temples, Bus Stand

In a day of contrasting headlines for the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay launched a massive crackdown on the state's liquor retail network, while a senior party functionary was apprehended in a multi-crore investment scam.

Liquor Crackdown: 717 Outlets to Close

Fulfilling a core campaign promise, Chief Minister Vijay on Tuesday directed the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) to shutter 717 liquor outlets within the next 14 days. The order targets shops located near sensitive zones, including schools, bus stands, and religious sites.

The decision follows a comprehensive statewide audit triggered by the TVK's long-standing criticism of previous administrations for prioritizing liquor revenue over public welfare.

The Breakdown of Closures:

A detailed survey identified shops operating within a 500-metre radius of restricted areas. Out of the 4,765 shops currently active in Tamil Nadu, the following are slated for closure:

• 276 shops near temples, mosques, and churches.
• 255 shops near bus termini.
• 186 shops near schools and colleges.

TVK Functionary Arrested in ₹25 Crore Scam

While the government celebrated its policy victory, the party faced embarrassment in Pudukkottai. Saravanan, a Central District Executive Committee member of the TVK, was arrested by the District Crime Branch for an alleged financial fraud exceeding ₹25 crore.

The Allegations:

Saravanan reportedly solicited investments ranging from ₹30 lakh to ₹1.5 crore from over 100 individuals, promising high-interest returns.

Victims claimed the accused went "dark" for 15 days, switching off his phone and sparking fears that he would use his new political influence to evade repayment.

After a 10-day search, police tracked Saravanan to a neighboring state and brought him back to Pudukkottai for interrogation.

Tension at the SP Office

The arrest triggered a volatile scene as over 100 victims swarmed the District Superintendent of Police's office. Emotions ran high, with some protesters demanding the police "hand over" the accused so they could settle the matter personally.

Police officials eventually pacified the crowd, assuring the public that a formal case has been registered and a recovery process is underway. Despite the assurances, a heavy police presence remains at the office as investors refuse to leave until they receive guarantees for their money.