No target set for liquor sale, says TN Excise Minister Muthusamy

COIMBATORE: Minister for Prohibition and Excise S Muthusamy said the state government has not set any target to increase the sale of liquor in Tasmac shops.

Addressing the media after inaugurating sports events in VOC Park in Erode, Muthusamy said if a shop records a ten per cent dip in sales, measures are initiated only to find out if any irregularity happens. “Definitely the state government has no plans to increase liquor sales. The government will be happy if people quit alcoholism and sales drop in Tasmac outlets,” he said.

The minister said 12,000 billing machines have been procured and it will be brought to use soon in Tasmac shops to prevent the selling of liquor at a higher price. “Several warnings have been issued against selling liquor beyond the fixed price in Tasmac shops. It is also under consideration for the state government to pay electricity bills and rent of Tasmac shops,” he said.

On the newly implemented Athikadavu-Avinashi scheme, the minister said monitoring committees will be formed with local people to prevent theft of electrical items and damage to pipes.

“All ponds and tanks are receiving water, which is pumped depending on the surplus flow in the river,” he said.