The Railway Board on Wednesday categorically stated that there is no official provision for selling or serving halal-certified food on Indian trains, responding to a notice issued by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
The NHRC had sought clarification following a complaint alleging that Indian Railways serves only halal-processed meat in non-vegetarian meals, resulting in “unfair discrimination” and raising human-rights concerns.
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A senior Railway Board official clarified that all food supplied on trains adheres strictly to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms, and that no mandate exists for halal certification within the catering system. “There is no official provision for serving Halal-certified food on Indian Railways,” the official emphasized.
Railway officials also pointed to a recent case before the Chief Information Commission (CIC), where an RTI applicant had requested details on whether halal-processed meat was being served onboard. The Railways reiterated before the CIC that no halal-certified food is provided, and that no such policy or documentation exists within the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
In its order, the CIC noted the Railways’ consistent position, highlighting that the Chief Principal Information Officer confirmed the absence of any records, policies, approval mechanisms, or passenger consent protocols related to halal-certified food.
The clarification comes amid growing public debate, reaffirming that Indian Railways follows uniform national food-safety standards without religious-specific certifications.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
