Tasmac employees protest seeking alternative jobs after shop closures

Karur: Employees of the state-run liquor retailer Tasmac held a protest in front of the Karur district collectorate on Thursday, demanding alternative employment opportunities for staff affected by the closure of liquor outlets under the state govt's recent order.The protest was organised by the Joint Committee of All TASMAC Employees' Unions (Karur district), representing various trade unions and employee associations. Protesters urged the govt to provide jobs commensurate with the educational qualifications of employees who lost work after the closure of shops.The demonstration was led by V R Anna Velu, district president of Labour Progressive Federation (LPF).The protesters demanded that separate staff be appointed for collecting empty liquor bottles instead of burdening regular employees. They sought strict action against anti-social elements threatening outlet workers and demanded compensation for damaged bottles. The unions further urged the govt to bear rent, electricity and refrigeration expenses for liquor outlets and reimburse employees' travel expenses for official work. They also sought additional staff in Karur outlets, claiming sales had increased after the closure of eight nearby Tasmac shops.