The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has criticised the Indian Railways for providing an “incomplete” and “non-transparent” report on the serving of halal-certified food in trains. The commission took note after a complaint claimed that non-vegetarian meals on trains include only halal-processed meat, which allegedly violates passengers’ rights and creates discrimination.
In its response, the Railway Board said that Indian Railways and IRCTC follow Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines and that there is no official policy for serving halal-certified food. A similar issue was previously raised before the Chief Information Commission, which confirmed that no records exist regarding any policy, approval process, or passenger consent related to halal meals.
Despite this, the NHRC said the report does not fully address concerns about the “freedom of choice of passengers,” which it described as a fundamental right. The commission noted that, according to Darul Uloom Deoband, meat is considered halal only if slaughtered by a Muslim, raising potential issues of employment discrimination and limiting opportunities for people of other religions.
While acknowledging that IRCTC complies with FSSAI norms, the NHRC said there should be clear public disclosure about the method of slaughter used in non-vegetarian meals. The commission also pointed out that IRCTC works with many vendors and contractors across trains, stations, hotels, and restaurants, but the railways’ report did not specify which suppliers provide halal, jhatka, or both types of food.
The NHRC has asked IRCTC to submit a fresh Action Taken Report listing all contractors, the type of food they serve, and the locations where it is provided. It has also directed the Railway Board to explain how these concerns will be incorporated into their quality and standards framework.
The commission further highlighted that the Ministry of Tourism’s hotel classification and star-rating guidelines do not require hotels to disclose the method of meat slaughter. The NHRC has asked the ministry to consider adding such provisions and report back within four weeks.
A senior NHRC official said, “Passengers have a right to know what they are consuming. Transparency in food services is essential to ensure no one is discriminated against.” The NHRC has given all authorities four weeks to respond.
