TASMAC retail liquor outlets in Tamil Nadu have been shut for three days as part of restrictions ahead of the Assembly elections. The closure, in effect from April 21 through today, also includes a ban on opening attached bars.
Despite the shutdown, illegal sales were reported in Chennai and its suburbs on Tuesday. People were seen selling liquor bottles in dimly lit spots, including areas behind suburban railway stations and near the coastline, across Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram districts.
According to accounts from the field, a quarter bottle was sold at prices up to Rs 100 above the MRP. The spike follows heavy purchases by consumers on April 20, anticipating the continuous holiday.
TASMAC has instructed district managers to ensure complaints are lodged with police if liquor is sold unlawfully in bars or other locations. Liquor shop staff also alleged that some individuals had been buying small quantities daily and stockpiling them, now reselling at inflated rates during the closure.
The staff further claimed that, since the model code of conduct came into force, election flying squads have increased checks, and shops have avoided selling large quantities to a single person. They urged strict action against those involved in black-market sales.
