NewKerala.com

NHRC vs Railways: Halal-Only Meat Menu Sparks Rights Battle

The National Human Rights Commission has taken serious notice of complaints about halal-only meat on Indian Railways. A passenger alleged this policy discriminates against Hindu and Sikh travelers who prefer jhatka meat. The commission has demanded an immediate investigation into these claims of religious discrimination. Railways must now submit an action report within two weeks addressing these concerns.

Key Points: NHRC Notice to Railways Over Halal-Only Meat Menu

  • NHRC demands investigation into alleged religious discrimination in railway food services
  • Complaint cites violation of Hindu and Sikh passengers' religious food preferences
  • Halal-only policy affects livelihood of traditional meat business communities
  • Railways given two-week deadline to submit Action Taken Report to commission
2 min read

NHRC issues notice to Railways over 'halal-only' meat on menu; seeks report in 2 weeks 

National Human Rights Commission demands investigation into halal-only meat policy on Indian Railways, citing discrimination against Hindu and Sikh passengers' religious food choices.

"Allegations made in the complaint must be enquired into, and an Action Taken Report be submitted within two weeks - NHRC Notice"

New Delhi, Nov 26

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has served a notice to the Indian Railways over complaints of ‘halal-only’ meat in its non-vegetarian menu and sought an enquiry into the matter, followed by an Action Taken Report in two weeks.

The controversy broke out over the issue after a person lodged a complaint with the human rights panel, claiming violation of human rights and discrimination towards certain communities, particularly the Hindus and Sikhs of the country, due to the Indian Railways’ apparent 'preference' for halal-processed meat and ignorance of ‘jhatka’ meat.

The NHRC, taking cognisance of the complaint, shot off a letter to the Railway Board chairman seeking a thorough investigation and quick action over ‘unfair discrimination’ to passengers of certain faiths and belief and over deprivation of their food choices while travelling with the carrier.

The complainant alleged that Hindu and Sikh passengers do not get the food choices in trains that match their religious beliefs, thus affecting their freedom of choice and religious rights.

The practice of serving halal-only meat also adversely affects the Hindu SC community, the complainant claimed, highlighting the fact that they have been traditionally engaged in the meat business and therefore such ‘preference’ of Railways will directly impact their means of livelihood.

It also demanded that the Railways and all intermediaries involved in food-catering for the public carrier respect the beliefs and right of choice of food of different faiths and give rightful weightage to both 'halal' and 'jhatka' meat.

The NHRC Bench, headed by Priyank Kanoongo, paying heed to the passenger’s grievances, issued a notice to the Railway Board chairman and demanded a probe and action in the matter.

“Allegations made in the complaint must be enquired into, and an Action Taken Report be submitted within two weeks for perusal of the Commission,” the notice by the NHRC to the Railways read.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good move by NHRC. In a diverse country like India, public services must cater to everyone's dietary preferences. Offering both options is the only fair solution. 🙏
S
Sarah B
While I understand the need for religious accommodation, I hope this doesn't become another divisive issue. The focus should be on providing choice without creating conflict between communities.
A
Arjun K
As a Sikh, I appreciate this step. Jhatka is important to our faith and having it available on trains would make travel much more comfortable for our community. Waheguru ji ka khalsa! ✨
V
Vikram M
The livelihood angle is crucial here. Many traditional meat sellers from Hindu communities practice jhatka, and excluding them affects their business. Railways should support local businesses too.
M
Michael C
Honestly, this seems like making a mountain out of a molehill. There are bigger issues Railways should focus on - safety, punctuality, cleanliness. But yes, choice is always good.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50