The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Railway Board after receiving a complaint that Indian Railways only serves halal-processed meat on its trains. The complainant argued that this creates “unfair discrimination” and violates the rights of passengers who follow different religious practices.
According to the NHRC’s proceedings dated November 24, the allegations appear to show a “prima facie violation of human rights”. The complaint, filed by Sunil Ahirwar from Bhopal, also claimed that the practice harms the livelihood of Hindu Dalit communities who traditionally work in the meat trade. He said it denies them equal opportunities by favouring only one method of meat processing.
The complainant further alleged that Hindu and Sikh passengers are left without food options that match their religious beliefs. He argued that this affects their right to equality, non-discrimination, religious freedom and dignity. “It violates Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(g), 21 and 25 of the Constitution,” he said, citing several Supreme Court judgments to support his claim.
The NHRC bench, headed by member Priyank Kanoongo, acknowledged the concerns and directed its registry to issue a notice to the Chairman of the Railway Board. The Railways has been asked to investigate the allegations and submit an action-taken report within two weeks. “The railway, being a government agency, should respect the right to the choice of food of all religious faiths as per the secular spirit of the Constitution,” the Commission said.
It also noted that selling only halal meat “badly affects” the livelihood of Hindu Scheduled Caste communities and other non-Muslim groups.
Railway authorities have not yet responded to the NHRC notice.
The complainant urged the Commission to intervene quickly, saying that the alleged policy goes against the principles of equality, secularism and the right to livelihood in a government-run service.
