The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Railway Board following a complaint alleging that a 2010 policy by IRCTC altered the reservation structure for catering and service tenders in a manner violating constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination. The notice directs railway authorities to investigate and submit a report within two weeks.

The complaint, filed by Vinay Joshi from Maharashtra, claims that the policy introduced by then Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee reduced statutory reservations for SC/ST/OBC categories while extending separate benefits to the Muslim community. Joshi contends that these changes were “politically motivated” and deprived the constitutionally protected categories of fair opportunity in tender allocations.

The NHRC bench, headed by member Priyank Kanoongo, has taken cognisance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Commission noted that the allegations “prima facie appear to violate human rights” and directed authorities to examine the matter thoroughly and submit an action taken report within two weeks.

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The complainant urged the NHRC to issue directions for the immediate abolition of the policy and action against officers responsible for its implementation, citing adverse impacts on the rights of SC/ST/OBC communities. Joshi’s petition emphasised that reservation benefits for a community not covered under statutory provisions contravene constitutional norms.

The NHRC’s notice instructs the Railway Board chairman to ensure a detailed inquiry into the allegations and take remedial measures where necessary. There was no immediate response from the Ministry of Railways on the development.

This notice adds to the ongoing scrutiny of reservation policies in government tenders and highlights the NHRC’s role in addressing claims of inequality in public sector procurement processes. Observers note that the findings could have significant implications for IRCTC’s tender allocation procedures and broader reservation frameworks.

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