Mumbai has begun shutting down all designated kabutarkhanas (pigeon feeding enclosures) across the city following a Bombay High Court directive citing public health hazards. The decision, while rooted in scientific concern, has triggered deep emotional and religious responses, particularly among the Jain community, who consider feeding birds a core ethical responsibility.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recently sealed 51 kabutarkhanas, including the iconic Dadar Kabutarkhana, a Grade-II heritage structure established in 1933. Widely known for its cultural and community significance, the Dadar site has long served as a daily congregation point for bird enthusiasts, many of whom are affiliated with religious groups that promote compassion towards animals. Acting on the High Court’s order, the BMC has cordoned off these spaces using bamboo barricades and plastic sheets, disconnected electricity supply, and initiated surveillance measures to curb further pigeon feeding. Authorities have been instructed to register FIRs under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against individuals violating the order.
The crackdown follows increasing health warnings issued by public health departments. According to civic health experts, pigeon droppings and nesting materials can trigger severe respiratory issues, particularly in children, the elderly, and those with compromised immunity. A specific illness, colloquially referred to as “Pigeon Lung,” has been linked to prolonged exposure to such environments. Medical authorities, including KEM Hospital, have been asked to furnish evidence substantiating the claims. Despite the action, the pigeons have not disappeared. The flocks have moved to open roads near closed sites, particularly a congested 300-metre stretch between Dadar Station and the former kabutarkhana, causing traffic obstructions and safety concerns. Volunteers and community members have tried to mitigate this by manually clearing grain and attempting to guide the birds away from busy streets.
In response, the BMC has begun penalising violators, including vendors selling bird feed, and has so far registered 16 cases under the new ruling. The first FIR was filed in Mahim. Local shopkeepers are also under scrutiny. The move has sparked resistance. Members of the Jain community argue that their constitutionally protected religious practices are being infringed upon. Citing Article 51(A)(g), which calls for compassion toward animals, religious leaders have demanded the reopening of feeding spaces or the provision of alternative zones. A hunger strike has been threatened if no resolution is reached by August 10.
Acknowledging the concerns, elected representatives have proposed relocating feeding zones to less populated areas such as Aarey Colony or Sanjay Gandhi National Park. These suggestions are under review. The development has once again ignited the conversation about how urban compassion, public health, heritage preservation, and ecological balance must be weighed in policy decisions. As Mumbai attempts to align its urban governance with sustainable and inclusive practices, resolving this issue with sensitivity will test its institutional maturity.
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