This directive was issued on Tuesday, May 12, just two days following his swearing-in as Chief Minister.
Officials have been instructed to shut down all Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) outlets located within a 500-metre radius of temples, mosques, churches, schools, colleges, and bus terminals.
The government has set a deadline of two weeks to close all identified shops across the state.
According to the Tamil Nadu government’s data, there are a total of 4,765 TASMAC liquor retail outlets operating in the state.
Out of these, 717 shops have been singled out for closure under the new directive. Among these, 276 are near places of worship, 186 are located near educational institutions, and 255 are close to bus stands.
After being sworn in on Sunday, Vijay stated in his opening remarks that his administration would operate under a unified leadership model and that there would be no competing centers of authority in the government.
His newly formed cabinet consists of both young leaders and seasoned members, with several close allies of the actor-turned-politician being assigned key roles within the ministry.
Right after assuming office, Vijay also signed documents to fulfill electoral promises.
His first actions on government files included providing 200 units of free electricity for residential consumers. He also sanctioned the establishment of a specialized force aimed at enhancing women’s safety and approved the creation of anti-drug units in every district.
