The National Human Rights Commission has sought the Railways’ response to a complaint about the use of only halal-certified meat in non-vegetarian dishes served in trains, Bar and Bench reported on Wednesday.
A bench presided by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo claimed that only using halal meat prima facie amounted to a violation of human rights, adding that this also affected the livelihoods of Scheduled Caste Hindu communities and other non-Muslims who worked in the meat trade.
Halal is an Arabic term that means “lawful”. In the dietary context, where it is most commonly used, it refers to food that is permissible according to Islamic regulations.
The Railways ought to respect the food choices of persons belonging to all religions as per the secular spirit of the Constitution, the commission added.
The notice was issued on a complaint claiming that the use of halal meat exclusively on trains created an unfair discrimination against Scheduled Caste Hindu communities who traditionally worked in the meat trade, Bar and Bench reported.
Hindu and Sikh passengers also do not get food options that match their religious beliefs, which violated their rights to equality, non-discrimination, freedom of profession, right to life with dignity and religious freedom under the Constitution, the complaint alleged.
Subsequently, the NHRC took cognisance of the matter under Section 12 of the 1993 Protection of Human Rights Act, which outlines its functions. The commission also sought an Action Taken Report within two weeks.
You’ve read Scroll.
Now help sustain it
Scroll is funded by readers, not corporate owners. If you believe our work matters, support our newsroom. Become a member today!
We’re not driven by clicks or corporate interests – just honest, independent reporting. Keep us going. Support Scroll today!