Tamil Nadu Government Announces Phased Reduction of Tasmac Liquor Outlets
In a significant development regarding liquor policy in Tamil Nadu, Minister for Housing, Prohibition and Excise S Muthusamy declared on Tuesday that the number of Tasmac liquor shops will be systematically reduced over time. The minister made this announcement during an interaction with reporters in Erode, where he addressed concerns about liquor addiction and outlined the government's approach to prohibition.
Gradual Relocation of Residential Area Shops
Minister Muthusamy specifically highlighted that liquor shops currently operating in residential neighborhoods would be gradually relocated to other areas as part of this initiative. This move aims to address community concerns about the proximity of alcohol outlets to homes and family environments.
Addressing Liquor Habituation
When questioned about increasing liquor addiction among the population, the minister offered a nuanced perspective. "I would not say they have become addicted to liquor, but they have become habituated to it," Muthusamy stated in Tamil, emphasizing the distinction between addiction and habituation. He reiterated the DMK government's commitment to gradually reducing liquor availability through measured steps.
"The chief minister is clear that gradual action should be taken in this regard," the minister affirmed, indicating that the administration under M K Stalin is pursuing a phased approach rather than abrupt prohibition measures.
Awareness Campaigns for Youth
Muthusamy revealed that the government is implementing comprehensive awareness programs targeting school and college students. These educational initiatives aim to inform young people about the risks associated with alcohol consumption and promote healthier lifestyle choices from an early age.
Political Context and Welfare Defense
The minister's statements came after he paid tribute to late Chief Minister C N Annadurai on his death anniversary at Panneerselvam Park in Erode. During the interaction, Muthusamy defended the DMK government's welfare schemes against criticism from Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who had suggested the free schemes were announced due to political pressure from actor and TVK leader Vijay.
"Where was Vijay when Stalin signed an order allowing women to travel free in government buses?" Muthusamy countered, asserting that the government's welfare measures are designed with long-term public benefit in mind rather than political considerations.
Investment in Future Generations
The minister elaborated on the government's perspective regarding social welfare expenditures. "If the state's debt is rising, no scheme can be implemented. We need to see how the free schemes benefit the people," he explained, addressing concerns about fiscal responsibility.
Muthusamy particularly emphasized the school breakfast scheme, stating: "Spending on the school breakfast scheme should not be seen as an expense. It is an investment for the future." This statement reflects the administration's view that social welfare programs represent strategic investments in human capital rather than mere expenditures.
The minister concluded by highlighting the continuity between current policies and the vision of former leaders, noting that "Chief minister M K Stalin is doing what Anna wanted with the support of deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin."
