Public health takes center stage as the National Human Rights Commission escalates its oversight on non-veg catering in Indian Railways. Notices have been dispatched to the Railway Ministry, FSSAI, and Tourism Ministry, seeking updated ATRs on persistent safety violations.
Complaints paint a grim picture: rotten meat served in premium trains, insects in curries, and expired products slipping through inspections. These incidents not only sicken travelers but erode trust in a service used by 23 million people daily.
NHRC’s intervention is timely, aligning with its mandate to protect vulnerable groups like daily commuters and tourists. The commission has flagged gaps in enforcement, from vendor licensing to waste disposal practices.
Responding swiftly, Railways announced a special task force for pantry cars, mandating daily microbial tests. FSSAI vows to blacklist non-compliant suppliers, while Tourism Ministry eyes integrating safety audits into star ratings for eateries near stations.
Long-term fixes include AI-driven expiry alerts and consumer feedback apps. Nutritionists stress the need for balanced menus beyond just non-veg fixes.
This saga underscores the human cost of regulatory oversight. With ATRs due, authorities are on notice to deliver real change, restoring confidence in onboard dining.