Indian Railways Confirms No Provision for Halal-Certified Food on Trains

The Railway Board has clarified its position that no halal-certified food is served on trains.

New Delhi:

The Railway Board officially stated on Wednesday that there is no provision for serving halal-certified food on Indian trains, responding to a notice from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

This NHRC notice was issued following a complaint alleging that Indian Railways exclusively serves halal-processed meat in non-vegetarian meals, which the complainant claimed creates unfair discrimination and violates human rights.

A senior Railway Board official explained, "Indian Railways and IRCTC strictly adhere to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines for all food products offered on trains."

The official emphasized, "There is no official provision for serving halal-certified food on Indian Railways."

Railway Board representatives noted that a similar issue was recently raised before the Chief Information Commission (CIC) by an applicant who requested information under the Right to Information Act regarding whether halal-processed meat is served in train meals.

During the CIC proceedings, the Board clearly stated that no halal-certified food is served on trains.

The CIC's order documented the Railways' position, noting that the Chief Principal Information Officer had "clearly and consistently stated that no records or documents exist within IRCTC regarding any policy for halal-certified food, its approval process, or explicit consent from passengers."

Railway officials reiterated, "We have consistently maintained that we follow the best food practices in our trains while complying with all applicable norms."