New Delhi | April 20, 2025: The Supreme Court of India has granted interim protection to Halal India Private Limited, shielding the organization from coercive actions following the Uttar Pradesh government’s ban on halal-certified products within the state.
On November 18, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration issued a notification prohibiting the production, storage, distribution, and sale of halal-certified food items, except those intended for export. The state government argued that halal certification created a “parallel system” leading to consumer confusion and was not aligned with the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Halal India, along with other organizations, challenged the ban in the Supreme Court, contending that it infringed upon constitutional rights, particularly the freedom of religion and trade. The petitioners emphasized that halal certification is a voluntary process catering to consumer preferences, similar to labels like “vegan” or “organic.”
The Supreme Court’s two-judge bench, recognizing the potential impact on ongoing trade and consumer markets, issued immediate protection to Halal India Private Limited. The court acknowledged that the ban could have broader implications beyond Uttar Pradesh, affecting interstate commerce and consumer rights.
The Uttar Pradesh government’s legal representative, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, expressed surprise over the extent of halal certification, noting that even non-meat products like wheat flour and water bottles were being certified. He argued that such widespread certification could lead to increased prices for consumers who do not follow halal practices.
The case has sparked a nationwide debate on the role of halal certification in India, with proponents highlighting its importance for religious adherence, consumer trust, and international trade, while critics raise concerns about economic implications and market segmentation.
The Supreme Court’s final verdict is anticipated to have significant ramifications for the food industry, export markets, and the broader discourse on religious freedoms and consumer rights in India.
Sources: Ummid.com, The Indian Express, Maktoob Media
