A group of women staged a protest near Karaikudi on Monday preventing a government liquor shop from being opened.The Tasmac has been operating at Mithiravayal near Karaikudi. Due to this shop, the people of the area have been facing various hardships, the protesters claimed.Eight years ago, the villagers engaged in a continuous protest for 35 days demanding the closure of the liquor shop.Following this, the liquor shop was closed. However, within a few months, it was reopened at the same location. Further, they alleged that many people from the area who consumed alcohol have been continuously dying due to reasons, including accidents and health deterioration.“Because of the liquor shop, the number of widows is increasing in our village. Many are affected by health issues at an early age. Moreover, law and order problems occur frequently. We do not even want the ₹2,500 monthly rights allowance promised by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam or any freebies. It is enough if the liquor shop is closed.”The Sakkottai police held peace talks with them.However, refusing to accept it, the women continued to engage in the protest. They also made arrangements to cook and eat at the spot. Upon learning about this, Mineral Resources Minister T.K. Prabhu spoke to the protesting women over the mobile phone and assured them that appropriate action would be taken.Following this, they withdrew their protest in the evening and dispersed.The Minister has assured to take action to close the liquor shop. If action is not taken within a week, we will protest again, they added. Published - June 08, 2026 07:51 pm IST