Phased prohibition in TN soon, says Minister S Muthusamy

Erode: Minister for Prohibition and Excise, S. Muthusamy, announced on Thursday that the Tamil Nadu government is planning to implement prohibition in a phased manner, ensuring that liquor consumers gradually kick the habit. Speaking to the media, Muthusamy highlighted that while Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is committed to shutting down TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) shops, the government is cautious about the consequences of closing them abruptly.

“Chief Minister M.K. Stalin desires to shut down TASMAC shops completely. However, we are aware of the adverse consequences if the shops are closed in one go. Therefore, the state government is taking a cautious approach. The shops will definitely be shut down, but only after ensuring that consumers gradually quit drinking,” Muthusamy stated.

This phased approach indicates that while the state government is serious about implementing prohibition, it also acknowledges the social and economic complexities involved in doing so. TASMAC has been a significant revenue generator for Tamil Nadu, but the detrimental effects of alcohol consumption have long been a matter of concern.

The minister also addressed Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan’s recent invitation to the AIADMK to participate in an anti-liquor conference in Kallakurichi. Thirumavalavan’s move had sparked speculation about the impact this might have on the political alignments in Tamil Nadu.

Muthusamy, however, dismissed the notion that the DMK-AIADMK alliance could be affected by the latter’s participation in the conference. “The opposition party’s mere participation in the meeting may not change the DMK’s alliance. Everyone has been invited to participate,” he said, underscoring that the anti-liquor initiative transcends party lines.

When questioned about Thirumavalavan’s criticism of the state government’s reliance on TASMAC revenue, Muthusamy downplayed the remark. He suggested that the VCK leader’s statement was likely aimed at encouraging the AIADMK to join the conference rather than a direct attack on the government.

“It is wrong to find fault and politicize the anti-liquor conference, which is being organized in line with the principles of the VCK. It’s not that Thirumavalavan is organizing anything against the government or Chief Minister Stalin,” he clarified.

On the administrative front, Muthusamy reassured the public that Chief Minister Stalin remains actively involved in state governance despite being abroad. He confirmed that Stalin has been signing documents and closely monitoring the day-to-day affairs of the state.