Chennai, April 13 (IANS) All TASMAC liquor outlets across Tamil Nadu will remain closed for three days from April 21 to April 23, as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the Assembly elections on April 23. The

The Election Commission has ordered that the prohibition will be in force from 10 a.m. on April 21 until midnight on polling day.

Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against any individual or establishment found violating the order by selling liquor illegally during this period. The move is aimed at preventing any untoward incidents and maintaining law and order during the crucial polling phase.

Polling for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections will take place across all 234 constituencies, with a total of 4,023 candidates in the fray.

The Election Commission has made extensive arrangements to facilitate voters, setting up 75,097 polling booths across the state. These include supplementary polling stations to manage voter turnout efficiently and ensure accessibility.

With the election date fast approaching, political parties have intensified their campaign efforts across Tamil Nadu. Despite the scorching summer heat, party leaders and candidates are actively engaging with voters through public meetings, roadshows, and door-to-door campaigns.

The final phase of campaigning has seen heightened political activity, with leaders traversing constituencies to garner maximum support.

Authorities have reiterated that all necessary security and logistical arrangements are in place to conduct free and fair elections. Enforcement teams have also been deployed to monitor compliance with election guidelines, including the ban on liquor sales.

The closure of liquor outlets during elections is a routine precaution aimed at curbing the influence of alcohol on voters and ensuring a conducive environment for democratic participation. As the state gears up for polling, officials remain focused on safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process while ensuring voter safety and convenience.

–IANS

aal/vd