In response to the complaints regarding the sale of liquor above the maximum retail prices (MRP) at Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) outlets across the state, Minister V. Senthil Balaji issued a directive on Friday. He instructed the district managers and other officers of Tasmac to ensure that the MRP list of all liquor varieties is prominently displayed at the entrance of the shops. The objective behind this instruction is to address the concerns raised by customers and promote transparency in pricing practices.
Recently, the issue of Tasmac outlet workers collecting an extra 10 rupees for each bottle of liquor has stirred up a flurry of discussions on social media platforms. In response to the mounting complaints, the minister recently addressed the media, assuring them that necessary action has been taken against the workers implicated in outlets where such malpractices were reported.
During a review meeting chaired by the minister, with the presence of principal secretary P Amudha and Tasmac managing director Visagan, important directives were issued. The minister emphasized that it is the duty of district managers to ensure the prominent display of price lists for customers and to impose fines on those who sell liquor above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP). Notably, the meeting was attended by Tasmac zonal officers, flying squad personnel, and sub-collectors as well.
Sources within Tasmac have revealed that the price lists are typically kept inside the shops. This precautionary measure has been necessitated by incidents where tipplers have defaced the price lists by affixing holograms or tearing them. “However, the minister had made it clear the rule has to be followed,” said the source.
Furthermore, the district managers have been duly informed by the minister that strict compliance with the prescribed timings for the outlets is imperative. In no uncertain terms, it has been emphasized that shops must not open before 12pm or extend their operating hours beyond 10pm.
Additionally, he emphasized that the zonal officers and flying squad have a responsibility to ensure that no illegal bars are operational within their respective jurisdictions. Furthermore, any instances of such establishments should be promptly reported to the police.
