Tensions Rise in Mumbai Over Court-Ordered Pigeon Feeding Ban

Mumbai, Aug 6 (PTI) In a recent development, protesters dismantled the tarpaulin covering the kabutarkhana at Dadar in Mumbai. This action followed an order from the Bombay High Court to close such pigeon feeding stations due to health concerns.

Protesters, largely from the Jain community, engaged in a confrontation with the police. The authorities attempted to prevent them from removing the protective cover installed by the municipal corporation. The court's decision highlighted the risks of respiratory problems associated with pigeon droppings.

The issue prompted Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to convene a meeting on Tuesday. He was joined by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and other ministers including Ganesh Naik, Girish Mahajan, and Mangalprabhat Lodha. The discussions centered around regulated feeding practices to safeguard public health while preventing pigeon deaths.

Chief Minister Fadnavis instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to manage controlled feeding with the assistance of relevant organizations until sustainable alternatives are established. The Jain community, for whom feeding pigeons holds sacred value, has strongly opposed the closure, staging demonstrations to emphasize the cultural importance and highlight concerns over pigeons dying on the streets.

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