Serving only halal meat on trains prima facie violation of human rights: NHRC issues notice to Railways
NHRC criticizes Railways for exclusive use of halal meat, citing adverse impact on Scheduled Caste Hindus and non-Muslim communities
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Railway Board regarding a complaint about the exclusive use of halal-certified meat in non-vegetarian dishes served on trains. A Bench led by Member Priyank Kanoongo observed that this practice prima facie violates human rights by adversely affecting the livelihood of Scheduled Caste Hindu communities and other non-Muslim communities engaged in the meat trade.
The NHRC highlighted that the Railways, as a government agency, must respect the food choices of people across all religions in accordance with the secular spirit of the Indian Constitution. The commission noted that the exclusive use of halal meat causes unfair discrimination against these communities and also limits passengers’ access to food aligned with their religious beliefs.
The complaint contended that this exclusive practice infringes on fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(g), 21, and 25 of the Constitution, covering equality, non-discrimination, freedom of profession, dignity, and religious freedom.
The NHRC, acting under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, has called for an Action Taken Report from the Railway Board Chairman within two weeks.