Vijay govt tightens TASMAC rules, orders strict checks on underage liquor sales

Chennai: Days after the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) began shutting liquor shops located near temples, schools and bus stands following directions from Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, TASMAC has now instructed employees to strictly avoid selling liquor to people below 21 years of age.

In a fresh notice issued to staff, the state-run corporation said employees must verify the age of customers whenever there is doubt about whether they are legally eligible to purchase alcohol.

The directive cites Rule 11A of the Tamil Nadu Liquor Retail Vending Rules, 2003.

ID proof must be checked if age is unclear

According to the instructions issued by TASMAC, employees have been asked to check valid identity documents such as Aadhaar cards, driving licences or other officially accepted proof of age before selling liquor to customers whose age appears doubtful.

The corporation has also warned staff members that disciplinary action would be taken against those found selling liquor to people below the age of 21.

Move comes amid tighter regulation of TASMAC outlets

The latest instruction comes shortly after the Tamil Nadu government ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor shops located within 500 metres of temples, educational institutions and bus stands across the state.

The order, issued soon after Vijay assumed office as Chief Minister, was presented by the government as part of a broader effort aimed at public welfare and stricter regulation of liquor outlets.

According to government data, the outlets identified for closure included shops operating near places of worship, schools, colleges and transport hubs.

The new TASMAC directive is being seen as part of the government’s attempt to tighten enforcement of existing liquor sale rules, especially those concerning underage customers.

Employees have now been specifically told to remain alert while handling sales and to verify documents whenever necessary before permitting purchases.

With agency inputs