Protesters Defy Court, Uncover Mumbai Pigeon Station

Tensions flared in Mumbai’s Dadar as protesters, primarily from the Jain community, forcibly removed a tarpaulin covering a kabutarkhana (pigeon feeding station) on Wednesday, defying a Bombay High Court order to close such facilities due to health risks like respiratory issues from pigeon droppings. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had covered the site, prompting clashes between protesters and police attempting to intervene.

Maharashtra’s suburban district guardian minister, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, visited the site and condemned the act, stating, “Whatever happened at the kabutarkhana was wrong and condemnable. Police will take a right decision on this.” Lodha, after speaking with the nearby Jain temple’s trust, noted their claim that outsiders, not temple members, instigated the protest. He appealed for peace and highlighted ongoing efforts to balance public health and pigeon welfare.

On Tuesday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and ministers to discuss regulated feeding to prevent pigeon deaths while ensuring mechanized cleanup of droppings. Fadnavis directed the BMC to maintain controlled feeding with organizational support until alternatives are in place. The Jain community, for whom feeding pigeons is a sacred tradition, has fiercely opposed the closures, staging demonstrations to protest the distress caused to pigeons.

Also Read: Shinde Slams Sena (UBT) Over Marathi Schools

Lodha added that a report addressing the issue will be submitted to the high court on Thursday, as the BMC works to align with court directives while addressing community concerns.

Also Read: Ex-President’s Wife Faces Corruption Probe in Seoul