Coimbatore has seen renewed discussion after reports that liquor bottles are being sold without the Rs 10 “sticker” in many TASMAC outlets, as the Assembly election draws closer.
The Rs 10 sticker system was introduced about two years ago, under which customers could return empty bottles and receive Rs 10. The scheme has been repeatedly targeted by AIADMK, BJP and other parties, linking it to Excise Minister Senthil Balaji and using it as a campaign talking point.
Opposition voices have mocked the alleged absence of stickers, claiming they are being avoided during the election period to prevent public anger against the DMK. They point to earlier complaints that an extra Rs 10 was collected per bottle, and that the sticker—carrying a QR code and shop number—led to arguments at outlets and incidents involving police, fuelling dissatisfaction.
In recent months, the stickers have reportedly been missing in several urban TASMAC shops in areas such as Ramanathapuram, Gandhipuram, Puliyakulam and Ondipudur, while suburban outlets continue to use them. DMK workers quoted in the report said there was concern that opposition leaders might display the bottle on stage during campaign speeches.
When asked, TASMAC officials said some shops did not have the stickers, but maintained that most outlets continue to sell bottles with the sticker attached.
