Chennai: Minister Vignesh on Tuesday said the government is collecting evidence against the “Karur gang” referred to by Chief Minister Vijay and asserted that action would be taken once the material is compiled.
Speaking to reporters, the minister also addressed the issue of TASMAC outlets allegedly selling liquor above the maximum retail price (MRP). He claimed that in the previous year, those who sold at higher prices were not suspended, and said the current administration had reinstated some staff who were earlier suspended “as an eyewash”.
Vignesh alleged that the practice of collecting higher amounts had been encouraged during the earlier period, and said he had raised the matter in the Assembly as well. He added that action is now being taken against those who sold liquor above MRP from September 1.
He said overpricing in a district cannot be attributed only to shop-level staff and indicated that district-level TASMAC management could also come under scrutiny in the next stage. “Our aim is not to protect anyone,” he said.
On the “Karur gang” reference, the minister said the Chief Minister had earlier spoken about it in connection with the same department and had read the allegations mentioned by the Enforcement Directorate. He said the government is gathering evidence and would “definitely” proceed with action.
