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New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has served notice to Indian Railways over complaints of ‘Halal-only’ meat in non-vegetarian menus and sought an inquiry into the matter and an action taken report in two weeks.
The controversy over the issue began when a man filed a complaint before the human rights panel, claiming human rights violations and discrimination against certain communities in the country, particularly Hindus and Sikhs, due to the Indian Railways’ apparent ‘preference’ for Halal-processed meat and ignoring of ‘jhatka’ meat.
The NHRC, taking cognizance of the complaint, wrote a letter to the Chairman of the Railway Board seeking a thorough investigation and prompt action on the ‘unfair discrimination’ against passengers of certain religions and beliefs and denial of their food options while traveling with the carrier.
The complainant alleged that Hindu and Sikh passengers do not get food in trains that matches their religious beliefs, thereby affecting their freedom of choice and religious rights.
The complainant claimed that the practice of serving only Halal meat also adversely impacts the Hindu SC community, highlighting the fact that they are traditionally engaged in the meat business and hence such ‘preference’ of the Railways will directly affect their means of livelihood.
It also demanded that all intermediaries involved in catering for railways and public carriers should respect the beliefs of different religions and the right to choice of food and give due importance to both ‘Halal’ and ‘Jhatka’ meat.
The NHRC bench headed by Priyank Kanungo, taking note of the complaints of passengers, issued a notice to the Railway Board Chairman and sought investigation and action in the matter.
“The allegations made in the complaint should be investigated and an action taken report should be submitted within two weeks for the perusal of the Commission,” the NHRC notice to the Railways said.
–IANS
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