Ministry of Railways Denies Halal Certification Requirement for Train Meals

The Ministry of Railways has clarified that there are no official guidelines requiring meals served on trains to be Halal certified. This statement comes in response to a notice reportedly issued by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which addressed a complaint alleging that only Halal-processed meat is provided to non-vegetarian passengers.

In a statement released on October 19, 2023, the Ministry of Railways said, “There have been recent media reports stating that Railways has been served with a notice by NHRC on a complaint that only Halal-processed meat is being used in non-vegetarian meals served on trains.” They emphasized that no such guidelines exist mandating Halal certification for train meals.

The Ministry further explained that Indian Railways adheres to the standards established by the government. “The catering licensees and vendors are required to comply with the standards prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI),” the statement continued. “IRCTC also abides by all instructions and guidelines issued by Railways on this subject, along with ensuring full FSSAI compliance across all catering services.”

Previous Queries Addressed

The issue of Halal meat service on Indian Railways has been raised previously, notably through social media channels in July 2023. At that time, the Ministry responded clearly, stating that IRCTC serves non-vegetarian food, specifically chicken, in accordance with the standards set forth in the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and its subsequent amendments.

The Ministry reiterated that it takes such inquiries seriously and aims to provide transparent and accurate information regarding food services on trains. By ensuring compliance with FSSAI regulations, Indian Railways seeks to meet the dietary needs of all passengers while maintaining high standards of food safety.

The ongoing dialogue surrounding meal options on trains highlights the diverse dietary preferences of travelers and the importance of catering to various cultural and religious requirements. As the railway service continues to evolve, it remains committed to addressing passenger concerns and ensuring quality service across its operations.