With the government struggling to make available new notes after demonetisation and extending the use of old currency for utility services, tipplers in Tamil Nadu do not want to be left behind.
The Tamil Nadu Tipplers Awareness Association members have petitioned the Chief Ministers’ Grievance Redressal Cell to direct Tasmac outlets in the state to accept Rs 500, Rs 1000 notes.
“We presented petitions to the CM's Cell and Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation MD seeking relaxation in liquor shops on using demonetised currencies. We are finding it difficult to find exact change to purchase a quarter bottle,“ said M Chellapandian of the association.
The association argued that if government-owned transport corporations can give a relaxation, then Tasmac which is also a government institution could do the same.
“Tasmac is also government-owned. Why should the concession of using old currencies not be extended to liquor shops,“ asked Chellapandian.
Daily wagers who make up most of the association are finding it hard to get their dose of alcohol.
“Most of our wages are in denominations of `500 and `1,000. We will lose a day's wage if we stand in queues to exchange demonetised currencies. It is only in the evening we have a drink,“ he said.
However, there is no proposal to accept old currency notes. “If the government directs us we will take a decision,“ said a Tasmac official.