Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Prohibition and Excise department has instructed its Assistant Commissioners to carry out intensified inspections to prevent the sale and distribution of narcotics and illicit liquor near schools, colleges, hostels and bus stands.
In a circular sent to Deputy and Assistant Commissioners, the department said creating a drug-free society is a government responsibility, and safeguarding the future and safety of children, youth and women remains a key objective.
Officials have been asked to step up monitoring and checks in vulnerable areas, identify locations with higher incidence of illicit arrack production or sales, and conduct targeted raids. The circular also calls for forming teams to gather confidential inputs by involving NGOs, volunteers, teachers, parents, residents’ welfare associations and women’s self-help groups.
The department directed strict action against offenders and urged effective coordination with the police, the anti-narcotics wing, TASMAC, the forest department, railway police and officials from neighbouring states.
It also instructed officials to ensure compliance with working-hour restrictions at TASMAC outlets, clubs and star-hotel bars, prevent overpricing of liquor, stop sales to those below 21, identify and shut illegal bars, and curb liquor sales through small shops.
