In Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu, all 111 TASMAC liquor outlets resumed operations after being closed for three days due to a protest by the Joint Action Committee of TASMAC Employees' Unions.
The protest was organised to press for various long-standing demands.
During the closure, many consumers sought alcohol from military canteens and private bars, with some travelling to nearby border areas such as Kuppam in Andhra Pradesh and Attibele in Karnataka to purchase liquor.
The protest was held in front of the TASMAC manager’s office at Pandappalli near Krishnagiri. Following discussions with officials, an agreement was reached, leading union representatives to announce a temporary suspension of the protest.
TASMAC officials stated that instructions were issued to reopen all outlets and resume liquor sales from January 31. Police protection has been requested to maintain law and order. Officials confirmed that all shops would function as usual from the reopening.
Employees raised demands including permanent employment for TASMAC sales staff and the appointment of separate workers to handle empty bottles, with a payment of ₹10 per bottle. Officials have sought 30 days to address these demands and assured that action will be taken. Based on these assurances, unions temporarily suspended their protest.
Accordingly, all 111 TASMAC shops in Krishnagiri reopened at 12 noon on January 31. Liquor consumers, who struggled to obtain alcohol during the closure, waited outside the outlets from early morning. Upon opening, large crowds gathered and purchased liquor enthusiastically.