Comrades, no banners or public celebrations: TVK's appeal to supporters

The Vijay-led Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) appears to be making a strong start after coming to power. Hours after shutting down over 700 liquor stores across Tamil Nadu, the party on Tuesday urged its supporters to avoid engaging in activities that could trouble citizens.

In a post on X, the party advised supporters not to put up banners or posters in ways that could obstruct public movement or traffic. It also asked them to avoid public celebrations that may cause inconvenience to the public.

“Strict action will be taken against anyone who behaves in a manner that causes hindrance to the public through banners, celebrations, or anything else,” the post read.

The directive, issued by minister N Anand, reiterated that TVK’s sole focus remains the welfare of the people, adding that Chief Minister Vijay has entrusted the party with significant responsibility.

The TVK's directive came after CM Vijay on Tuesday ordered the closure of 717 state-run liquor retail outlets operating near places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state.

The order directed authorities to shut down all such Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) outlets functioning within a 500-metre radius of temples, mosques, churches, schools, colleges and bus stands within the next two weeks.

According to the Tamil Nadu government, the state currently has a total of 4,765 Tasmac liquor retail shops. Of the 717 identified for closure, 276 are located near places of worship, 186 near educational institutions and 255 near bus stands.

The decision was welcomed by political parties and leaders, who described it as a step towards addressing a long-standing demand and strengthening liquor regulation.

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