CM Vijay Details 200 Units Free Power, TASMAC Closures, and Women's Safety in Dharapuram
_1948669311.jpg)
Addressing a mammoth public gathering in Dharapuram on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay presented a comprehensive report card of his administration's governance and delivered a sharp critique of dynastic hegemony. Firing a direct salvo at traditional political dynasties, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief remarked that certain political figures still harbor the illusion that governance belongs exclusively to their family circles. Asserting that his politics is grounded in service rather than monarchy, Vijay affirmed that the popular mandate granted to TVK is being honored through swift welfare rollouts, institutional anti-corruption drives, and decisive curbs on alcohol access across the state.
Big Welfare Decisions: 200 Units Free Power and 717 TASMAC Liquor Shops Shut Down
Highlighting foundational policy decisions enacted since assuming office, Vijay detailed interventions aimed at easing domestic financial burdens and strengthening social security:
200 Units of Free Electricity: On his very first day in office, the Chief Minister approved a landmark scheme providing up to 200 units of free domestic power. The benefit extends to household consumers whose aggregate bi-monthly electricity consumption stays within 500 units, significantly offsetting monthly utility expenditures for lower- and middle-income families.
Closing 717 TASMAC Outlets: Delivering on a core social welfare commitment, the government ordered the permanent closure of 717 state-run TASMAC liquor shops in May 2026. The phased shutdown targeted outlets operating within a 500-meter radius of educational institutions, places of worship, and central bus terminals.
Zero Tolerance for Administrative Corruption: Reaffirming his commitment to clean governance, Vijay stated that his administration’s primary goal is to ensure common citizens can access government services seamlessly without encountering bureaucratic extortion or bribery.
Dedicated Security for Women: 'Singa Penn' Force and 37-District Anti-Narcotics Crackdown
Focusing on law and order priorities, the Chief Minister outlined aggressive strategies targeting street crimes against women and the illegal drug trade:
'Singa Penn Sirppu Athiradhi Padai': To guarantee rapid intervention in offenses against women and children, the state formed a specialized rapid-response women’s security force known as the Singa Penn Sirppu Athiradhi Padai, equipped to respond swiftly across urban and rural jurisdictions.
Statewide Offensive on Narcotics: Addressing the menace of illicit substances, the administration established dedicated anti-drug enforcement cells across 37 districts and nine municipal corporations, mobilizing 65 specialized tactical teams to dismantle drug supply chains around school premises, college campuses, and youth hubs.
Expanding Welfare Slate: Free Bus Travel, LPG Schemes, and Milk Procurement Hike
Vijay also touched upon key manifesto deliverables designed to support homemakers and rural agrarian communities:
'Vettri Payanam' and 'Annapoorni' Schemes: The Chief Minister noted that the Vettri Payanam initiative—facilitating free state bus transport for women—is slated for statewide rollout from October 2, alongside the Annapoorni scheme scheduled for Pongal, which aims to provide six subsidized or free LPG cylinders annually to eligible households.
₹6 Milk Procurement Hike for Dairy Farmers: In a significant boost for rural milk producers, Vijay announced a ₹6 per liter enhancement in state dairy procurement prices, coupled with the upcoming Thayaman Thanga Modiram welfare initiative.
Dharapuram and Madurantakam By-Polls: The high-energy Dharapuram address also served to consolidate grassroots momentum for upcoming assembly by-elections, where TVK has fielded P. Sathyabama from Dharapuram and K. Maragatham Kumaravel from the Madurantakam assembly constituency.
_1213072488_351x234.jpg)