The notice highlights potential violations of equality, religious freedom, and the livelihoods of Hindu Scheduled Caste and non-Muslim meat suppliers
NEW DELHI — The ongoing controversy surrounding the exclusive use of halal certified meat in Indian Railways’ non vegetarian meals has taken a critical turn with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) formally seeking explanations from the Railway Board.
The NHRC issued a notice on Tuesday following a complaint alleging that non vegetarian food served onboard trains and at railway stations relies solely on halal-certified meat.
The complaint argued that this practice effectively discriminates against Hindu and Sikh passengers who prefer meat prepared according to their religious customs, commonly referred to as “jhatka.” It further claimed that Hindu Scheduled Caste (SC) communities and other non-Muslim meat traders, traditionally involved in the meat trade, are losing livelihood opportunities due to the dominance of halal suppliers in the railway’s supply chain.
NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo emphasised the urgency of the matter, noting, “The allegations made in the complaint prima facie seem to be violations of the human rights of the people, as the practice of selling only halal meat badly affects the livelihood of the Hindu SC communities, other non-Muslims communities and also the Railway as the government agency should respect the rights to choice of food of people belonging to all religious faiths, as per the secular spirit of the Constitution of India.”
The commission has requested a detailed Action Taken Report from the Railway Board within two weeks, underlining potential contraventions of Articles 14 and 15 on equality, Article 25 on freedom of religion, Article 19(1)(g) on freedom of profession, and Article 21 on the right to life with dignity.
The complainant highlighted that non-Muslim passengers are effectively denied meals that align with their religious beliefs, constituting a violation of fundamental rights. The complaint also raised serious concerns regarding economic implications, pointing out that Hindu SC communities, historically engaged in the meat trade, are increasingly excluded from contracts due to halal-only procurement.
A senior official from the Railway Board clarified to the media, “There is no official provision for serving halal certified food on Indian Railways.” Officials explained that suppliers are appointed following the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms, and halal certification is not mandatory. Despite this, critics contend that in practice, most meat suppliers engaged by the Railways are halal-certified, indirectly marginalising non-Muslim meat traders and denying passengers alternative options.
For Hindu and Sikh passengers, consuming jhatka meat is a matter of faith, not merely preference. Affected communities argue that public institutions must respect these dietary practices in line with the secular principles enshrined in the Constitution. One Scheduled Caste Hindu meat trader stated in the complaint, “If jhatka or non-halal meat is not made available, it hurts us deeply. This is not just about food. This is about our livelihood and dignity.”
The controversy also touches upon broader debates surrounding halal certification in public services. While halal-certified meat meets religious and safety standards for Muslim consumers, critics argue that in state-run institutions, offering only halal options risks marginalising other religious groups, particularly those historically disadvantaged. Supporters of halal certification maintain that many non-Muslims do not object to consuming halal meat, reflecting a complex social dynamic.
The NHRC’s intervention has highlighted both the human and economic dimensions of the issue. By urging the Railways to ensure alternative meat options or accommodate passengers’ religious preferences, the Commission seeks to balance secular governance, communal harmony, and the protection of human rights.
Observers note that India’s handling of this controversy could set an important precedent for the management of religious diversity in public services. Ensuring inclusivity while respecting Muslim dietary needs alongside the concerns of Hindu and Sikh communities could reinforce secular principles and economic justice.
The dispute over halal-only meals on trains goes beyond food. It raises critical questions about dignity, livelihoods, and the secular fabric of India. The NHRC’s demand for a transparent report underscores the need for Indian Railways to adopt inclusive policies that respect the dietary choices of all passengers while safeguarding the economic interests of marginalised communities. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Railways can strike a fair balance between religious rights, equality, and social justice.
