Chennai, May 15
The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) has issued a stern warning to its retail outlet staff, stating that strict disciplinary action will be taken against employees found selling liquor above the maximum retail price (MRP).
The directive comes amid persistent complaints from customers across Tamil Nadu alleging that Tasmac outlets continue to overcharge, even after the change in government. The issue had earlier gained political traction, with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) raising it prominently during the Assembly election campaign against the previous regime.
In a circular issued on Thursday, Tasmac headquarters acknowledged receiving repeated complaints from various districts regarding overpricing. It warned that salesmen and assistant supervisors involved in such practices would face severe disciplinary action for dereliction of duty and misconduct.
The corporation also placed responsibility on district managers, cautioning that failure to curb overpricing would invite action against supervisory officials as well. Senior regional managers and special flying squads have been instructed to intensify monitoring and ensure strict enforcement at retail outlets.
As part of the crackdown, Flying Squad Deputy Collectors have been directed to conduct inspections based on complaints and initiate immediate action against erring staff. The move signals an attempt by authorities to restore accountability within the state-run retail network.
The issue of overcharging has resonated widely among consumers. C Joseph Vijay had previously targeted the practice during a political rally, alleging that customers were routinely forced to pay extra per bottle under the earlier administration. Public frustration has also led to citizen-driven initiatives, including an online platform that crowdsources complaints against erring outlets.
With enforcement measures now being tightened, the effectiveness of the crackdown will be closely watched, particularly in addressing a long-standing grievance that has persisted across successive governments.