Directing the Chairman, Railway Board, New Delhi, to get the allegations made in the complaint inquired into, the NHRC sought an action-taken report within two weeks. Image for representation only.
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently issued a notice to the Indian Railways over a complaint alleging that “only halal-processed meat” is being served on trains, which affects ‘freedom of choice and religion’ for others and creates “unfair discrimination’’.
The notice was issued on November 24, 2025, by the Bench of NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo while taking cognisance of the complaint filed by Sunil Ahirwar from Bhopal.
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In his complaint, Mr. Ahirwar said only halal-processed meat under non-vegetarian meals was being served on trains, which created unfair discrimination and caused human rights violations. He said the practice of serving only halal meat excluded people from Hindu SC communities, who traditionally worked in the meat trade and therefore harmed their livelihood rights and equal opportunities.
Mr. Ahirwar alleged that it was due to this practice, the Hindu and Sikh passengers did not get food options that matched their religious beliefs, affecting their freedom of choice and religious rights which violated their rights to equality, non-discrimination, freedom of profession, right to life with dignity and religious freedom under Articles 14, 15. 19(1)(g), 21 and 25 of the Constitution.
“…. is contrary to the principles laid down in cases of Olga Tellis (1985), Indian Young Lawyers Association (2018), State of Karnataka v Appa Balu Ingale (1995) and NHRC v. State of Gujarat (2009). The complainant stated that such a policy in a government-run system appears to violate the principles of equality, secularism. non-discrimination, and the right to livelihood. The complainant sought the intervention of the commission in the matter and requested urgent action,” the plea reads.
Directing the Chairman, Railway Board, New Delhi, to get the allegations made in the complaint inquired into, the NHRC sought an action-taken report within two weeks.
Published – November 26, 2025 08:46 pm IST
