Tamil Nadu Electricity Minister P Thangamani, who also holds the Prohibition and Excise portfolio, has refuted reports in few sections of the media which claimed that entry fees would be levied to customers of TASMAC liquor bars.
"There is no such plan. But plastic products will not be used," he said. Earlier, reports said TASMAC was planning to collect entry charges for bars.
The reports stated: "More than 2,000 bars are functioning in the State in which water packets, plastic cups are being sold. Since both these products are banned by the government, it is said the bars might incur a loss. Following this the bar owners have raised their concerns to the officials, who are said to have issued orders approving the collection of entry fees."
"Since, plastic cups are banned, it is also said, bars will now start giving glass or steel tumblers. However, customers are concerned about the hygiene and cleanliness of the tumblers given."
In the meantime, it has emerged that TASMAC has set an ambitious target of Rs 200 crore during New Year sales. Sources say liquor outlets have been stocked with various varieties of liquor products including beer, brandy, whisky, wine, vodka, rum etc.
