Tasmac cracks whip on 62 for selling liquor during lockdown

The corporation has suspended more than 60 salesmen and supervisors, working in its outlets, against the backdrop of several complaints in the last several weeks. “As many as 62 salesmen, including over 10 supervisors, were suspended from their services for indulging in unlawful activities including selling liquor in the black market during the total shutdown period,” a senior Tasmac official told DT Next.

Stating that as on date 6,900 shop supervisors, 15,000 salesmen and about 3,400 assistant salesmen are working in the liquor retail vending shops, the official said a few salesmen were also suspended on the charges of selling liquor for higher prices soon after the opening of the outlets after more than 40 days. “Those suspended were caught red-handed during surprise raids conducted by Tasmac authorities following complaints from the public,” he said.

While the suspension period will range from six months to one year depending on the offence, the corporation has also served notices to more than 200 salesmen, including 50 supervisors, seeking explanation on false stock registration. “If we don’t get a convincing response, they will also be suspended and would be asked to pay for the missing liquor bottles,” he added.

He pointed out that despite the government introducing several welfare measures including bonus, medical scheme, provident fund scheme, insurance, among others, some salesmen and supervisors were indulging in unlawful activities.

However, Tamil Nadu Government Tasmac Employees’ Association state secretary AE Balusamy alleged that due to pressure from local politicians, the salesmen were forced to indulge in corrupt practices during the lockdown period.

“A detailed inquiry should be held,” he said and alleged several cases have been foisted against the salesmen.