The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Indian Railways, directing the Railway Board to investigate a complaint alleging that non-vegetarian meals served on trains consist solely of halal-processed meat. The complaint, filed by Sunil Ahirwar from Bhopal, raises concerns about unfair discrimination and violation of human rights, arguing that the practice restricts passengers' freedom of choice and religious rights. The NHRC has requested an action-taken report from the Railways within two weeks.
Ahirwar's complaint highlights that serving only halal meat on trains amounts to unfair discrimination and violates the rights of Hindu and Sikh passengers, who may not prefer halal-certified meat due to their religious beliefs. He also points out that Hindu Scheduled Caste communities, traditionally involved in the meat trade, face adverse effects on their livelihood and equal opportunities due to this practice. The complainant argues that this policy infringes upon their constitutional rights to equality, non-discrimination, freedom of profession, dignity, and religious freedom, as enshrined in Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(g), 21, and 25 of the Constitution.
The complaint cites several landmark judgments, including Olga Tellis (1985), Indian Young Lawyers Association (2018), State of Karnataka v Appa Balu Ingale (1995), and NHRC v. State of Gujarat (2009), to support the argument that the current policy violates principles of equality, secularism, non-discrimination, and the right to livelihood. The plea seeks the NHRC's intervention and urgent action to address the matter.
The NHRC, presided over by member Priyank Kanoongo, took cognizance of the complaint under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Commission observed that the allegations prima facie suggest human rights violations and has directed the Chairman of the Railway Board to investigate the matter and submit an action-taken report within two weeks. The NHRC emphasized that as a government agency, Indian Railways must uphold the right of passengers to food choices according to their religious beliefs, reflecting the secular principles of the Constitution. The commission also noted the importance of considering the impact on the livelihoods of marginalized communities, such as Hindu Dalits engaged in the meat trade, to prevent indirect discrimination.
The Railways, in response, has clarified that there is no mandate to serve only halal-certified meat and that meals adhere to the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). An action-taken report is expected by December 10, 2025.
This intervention by the NHRC comes at a time when there is a rising Hindutva-driven campaign targeting halal certification across several states. Experts suggest that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for other government-run institutions, including schools, regarding food choices and religious considerations. The NHRC has stressed that selling food based on religious considerations in a secular nation is discriminatory and that such practices must end to uphold India's secular fabric.
