Viral video sparks debate over halal-certified tea served on Indian Railways

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

The video shows the passenger questioning the railway staff about the nature of halal-certified tea and its relevance during the auspicious month of sawan. The staff calmly explained that the tea was, in any case, vegetarian. The passenger, not fully understanding the concept of halal certification, sought an explanation and requested swastik certification instead.

The railways staff acknowledged the passenger's sentiments and promised to keep them in mind. As the video gained traction on social media, users shared mixed opinions about the incident. Some praised the patience of the railway official in handling the situation, while others criticized the passenger for seeking 'swastik-certified' tea, which could potentially hurt the sentiments of certain communities.

In response to the controversy, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) issued a statement clarifying that the tea premix in question had the mandatory FSSAI certification and was 100% vegetarian. They further explained that the halal certification was required due to the product's export to countries with such mandates. The tea premix company, Chaizup, also addressed the issue, emphasizing that their products were 100% vegetarian and made from natural, plant-based ingredients.

The halal certification was primarily for international export compliance. For those unfamiliar with the term, the text provided a brief explanation of halal certification. It began in 1974 for slaughtered meat and later extended to other food items, cosmetics, and medicines.