Mumbai: Jain protesters remove cover from pigeon feeding station, defy HC order

Protesters removed the tarpaulin cover from the kabutarkhana (pigeon feeding station) in Dadar, Mumbai, on Wednesday, defying the Bombay High Court’s order that directed the closure of such facilities due to health concerns. The clash broke out when members of the Jain community confronted the police, who attempted to stop the removal of the cover installed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), a PTI report stated.

Court order sparks unrest

The Bombay High Court had recently ordered the closure of Mumbai’s kabutarkhanas, citing health issues such as respiratory problems caused by pigeon droppings. Following this, the BMC covered the feeding areas, prompting backlash from some religious groups.

On Wednesday morning, protesters opposed to the move forcibly removed the covering. Police attempted to intervene but were met with resistance. The situation was brought under control after the crowd was dispersed.

Minister condemns action, appeals for calm

Mumbai suburban district guardian minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha visited the kabutarkhana later in the day and criticised the protest. “Whatever happened at the kabutarkhana in the morning was wrong and condemnable,” he told reporters.

Asked about possible action, he said, “Police will take a right decision on this.”

Lodha also said that he spoke with the management of the Jain temple located near the kabutarkhana. According to him, the temple trust denied any involvement and claimed that outsiders were responsible for the protest.

Religious sentiment vs public health

Feeding pigeons holds cultural and religious significance for the Jain community, many of whom have expressed concern about the ban. They argue the shutdown affects both their faith and the birds’ welfare, pointing to reports of pigeons dying on the streets.

Minister Lodha noted that the issue had been discussed in detail the previous day during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Other ministers present included Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Ganesh Naik, Girish Mahajan, and Mangal Prabhat Lodha.

“The chief minister listened to everyone and gave a directive so that people’s health should not be under threat and pigeons should also not die,” Lodha said. He added, “Tomorrow, a report will be submitted in the high court on the issue.”

Plan for regulated feeding and cleanliness

During the meeting, the government considered a proposal for regulated pigeon feeding, while also focusing on public health safeguards, including the mechanised removal of droppings.

Chief Minister Fadnavis directed the BMC to continue controlled feeding with the help of organisations until alternative systems are in place. Lodha said the civic body was instructed to ensure cleanliness and take necessary precautions.

Minister backs “controlled feeding”

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar supported the idea of regulating pigeon feeding. “Kabutarkhanas should also be saved by this controlled feeding structure. It should not be excessive and should not cause any inconvenience to people,” Shelar said.

He added that the Chief Minister’s orders regarding kabutarkhanas were clear and self-explanatory.