Overview
- A bench led by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo issued a notice to the Railway Board following a passenger’s complaint about halal-only meat on trains.
- The commission sought a detailed inquiry and an Action Taken Report within two weeks under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
- The complaint alleges discrimination against Hindu and Sikh passengers who may prefer jhatka meat in line with their religious beliefs.
- It also contends that a halal-only policy harms sections of the Hindu Scheduled Caste community traditionally involved in the meat trade.
- Indian Railways had not issued a public response to the NHRC notice at the time of the latest reports.