Surveillance stepped up to prevent FL2 bars from selling liquor in sealed bottles at extra cost

The Prohibition and Excise, and Police departments has stepped up surveillance of FL2 bars following complaints from sections of the public that liquor was being sold illegally in sealed bottles.

The district administration has also taken cognisance of complaints from the public about the location of FL2 bars in the vicinity of places of worship and educational institutions.

The employees of Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) are reported to have expressed their anguish over “illegal” sale of alcoholic beverages in sealed bottles at extra cost to customers through the FL2 bars.

Officials are acting on the complaints and have warned the bars operating illegally with closure notice, sources said.

Continuous checks are being conducted in the vicinity of schools, colleges, hostels, bus stands, railway stations, and other public places, the officials said.

At the recent monthly review meeting, District Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar mooted joint efforts by the Prohibition and Excise Department, Police, Social Welfare and Health Departments to step up surveillance and undertake awareness and rehabilitation initiatives simultaneously.

So far, the Tasmac has closed down 69 out of 283 outlets located close to educational institutions and places of worship across the district.

Adherence to maximum retail price in liquor retail stores is also being monitored at specific Tasmac outlets based on public complaints, Tasmac sources said.