Tamil Nadu Assembly clash over Tasmac liquor overcharging allegations

The ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and the opposition Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) clashed in the Tamil Nadu Assembly over allegations of corruption within Tasmac liquor outlets. Government ministers alleged that customers are being charged an additional Rs 10 per liquor bottle, claiming this overcharging practice has been entrenched for years, including during the previous DMK administration.

PWD and Highways Minister Aadhav Arjuna further alleged widespread corruption in the mining and liquor sectors, questioning the transparency of distillery licenses. He claimed that individuals associated with the DMK had benefited from licenses granted to 11 distilleries under successive governments.

DMK leaders, including former ministers EV Velu and V Senthilbalaji, rejected these claims, stating that licenses were issued to eligible applicants following established rules. They challenged the government to present evidence through legal channels and noted that the DMK had previously closed 603 Tasmac outlets as part of its prohibition policy. The debate led to a walkout by DMK members after they objected to being denied the opportunity to respond to the allegations.