Tamil Nadu's Tasmac Dilemma: Chief Minister Mulls Over Prohibition

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin is contemplating the closure of the state's monopolistic Tasmac liquor outlets. State Prohibition Minister S Muthusamy stressed that this issue must be handled with caution and patience. The political landscape is heated, with allied party VCK pushing for complete prohibition.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin is considering the closure of state-owned Tasmac liquor outlets, but this move requires careful deliberation, according to State Prohibition Minister S Muthusamy.

Muthusamy emphasized the need to handle the situation cautiously, suggesting that the ultimate goal is to gradually reduce the number of liquor shops as people are weaned off alcohol.

This issue has sparked political debates, with the VCK, an ally of the ruling DMK, advocating for total prohibition. VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan has invited various democratic parties, except communal and caste-based outfits, to support their anti-liquor conference on October 2.

Reacting to the VCK's stance, Muthusamy reiterated that Chief Minister Stalin intends to cease liquor sales eventually but underlined that such a significant step should not be rushed. He confirmed that proactive measures could be considered, depending on prevailing conditions.

Muthusamy assured that if people are moved away from alcohol consumption, achieving total prohibition would become feasible for the government.

(With inputs from agencies.)