Mumbai’s Pigeon-Feeding Ban Sparks Controversy

Mumbai, Maharashtra – A legal and social storm has erupted in Mumbai following a Bombay High Court directive that upheld a ban on public pigeon feeding at traditional kabutarkhanas, citing mounting health concerns related to pigeon droppings and feathers.

Key Developments:

On August 6, hundreds of protesters, many from the Jain community, forcefully removed tarpaulin coverings placed by the BMC over the Dadar kabutarkhana, defying the court order and prompting confrontations with police.

A Jain monk, Muni Nileshchandra Vijay, announced plans for an indefinite hunger strike starting August 13, warning that the community may resort to extreme measures—including “taking up arms”—if their religious right to feed pigeons continues to be restricted.

Political responses have lit the controversy further:

Guardian Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha condemned the violent protest, stressed adherence to law, and proposed alternative feeding zones—like one in Borivali National Park—to balance tradition and public health.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray criticized BJP leaders’ position, questioning whether the state’s proposals signify genuine concern or political opportunism.

Opposition figures including Congress and NCP have accused the government of putting religious appeasement over public health.



Why It Matters:
This dispute is emblematic of a larger challenge—how to reconcile public health priorities with deeply rooted cultural and religious practices. The pigeon-feeding tradition, particularly among Jains, is not just a custom—it’s a long-standing expression of compassion (jeev daya).