Chennai, Aug 7:
The Madras High Court has ruled that consumers can file complaints with the police if liquor is sold above the fixed price in TASMAC outlets, and directed authorities to register cases immediately on such complaints.
The order came while hearing a petition alleging that staff at multiple TASMAC shops in areas including Perambur, Kolathur and Madhavaram collected excess charges. The petitioner also sought recovery of the additional amounts collected between 2022 and 2026 and action against the employees involved.
The court reiterated that all TASMAC outlets must maintain receipt books and issue receipts for every bottle sold. Though TASMAC informed that circulars had been issued, it cited crowd-related difficulties in implementation. The petitioner, however, maintained that overpricing and non-issuance of receipts continue.
Questioning this, the judge observed that even small shops issue receipts and asked why TASMAC outlets could not follow the same practice. The court also suggested deploying police personnel at crowded outlets to regulate sales.
Emphasising accountability, the court stated that consumers should refuse to pay extra charges and report violations. It also directed vigilance authorities to investigate the complaint and submit a report, reinforcing stricter enforcement against malpractice.