New Delhi, 26 November (H.S.): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday took cognizance of a complaint alleging that only Halal meat is being served on Indian Railways. The Commission has issued a notice to the Chairman of the Railway Board, directing the submission of an action-taken report within two weeks.

The complainant has alleged that the exclusive practice of serving Halal meat discriminates against Hindu Scheduled Caste communities, who are traditionally involved in the meat trade, thereby undermining their right to livelihood and equal opportunities.

It was further contended that Hindu and Sikh passengers are not offered food choices consistent with their religious beliefs, which infringes upon their freedom of choice and religious rights. The complaint cites violations of Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(g), 21, and 25 of the Constitution, which guarantee equality, non-discrimination, freedom of profession, the right to a dignified life, and religious freedom, respectively.

The complainant has requested the Commission's urgent intervention in the matter.

NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo described the allegations as a prima facie violation of human rights. He observed that the practice of exclusively serving Halal meat adversely affects the livelihoods of Hindu Scheduled Caste communities and other non-Muslim groups associated with the meat industry. He emphasized that as a government agency, Indian Railways must respect the right to food choice for people of all religious faiths, in accordance with the secular spirit of the Indian Constitution.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar